KINGSTON, R.I., – July 21, 2022 – Receiving more than 25,400 applications for a place in the fall 2022 class, the University of Rhode Island once again broke its record for first-year applications. This year’s applications surpassed last year’s record of slightly more than 25,100.

According to Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management Dean Libutti, despite a national trend in declining enrollments, URI will welcome an undergraduate class of 3,300 first-year students and approximately 500 transfers when classes begin this fall.

“Attracting and enrolling students has become significantly more competitive in recent years,” said Libutti. Our ability to distinguish URI from its peers, and to successfully demonstrate, as a campus community, the outstanding experiences inside and outside of the classroom that students can expect here, has made all the difference.”

According to a May 2022 report by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, total postsecondary enrollment, including both undergraduate and graduate students, decreased nationally by 4.1% – equal to about 685,000 students – in spring 2022 compared to the previous year.

Libutti noted that URI is recognized for offering a top-notch academic experience and supporting its students’ growth, curiosity, and sense of community. The University also continues to expand academic programming, offer increased research and experiential learning opportunities, and enhance the living and learning spaces that are important to student success.

The 2022-2023 academic year at URI kicks off on Wednesday, September 7.