Cal State Fullerton set a new record high for enrollment this fall with more than 43,600 students signed up for classes.

That’s a 4% increase from last year, university officials recently announced, and also marks the highest enrollment at any campus in the California State University system.

University officials said the increase was likely due to an all-time high number of applications to the university and a strong retention rate. The university, which offers more than 100 degree programs, received more than 83,000 undergraduate and graduate applications for fall 2024, compared with 78,000 the year prior.

“This milestone not only underscores the growing demand for the high-quality education we offer, but also highlights the strong commitment of our faculty, staff and community to student success,” said Amir Dabirian, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “As we continue to innovate and expand opportunities for academic excellence, we remain dedicated to empowering students to achieve their fullest potential.”

In 2024, Cal State Fullerton also named a new president. Ronald Rochon arrived in Orange County this summer after six years as the president of Southern Indiana University.

As Fullerton’s student population grows, the new president has also expressed his intent to build and improve student housing, secure STEM funding and add new programs that meet students’ demands.

Classes resume on campus for the spring session on Jan. 18.