University of California sees record-breaking enrollment in Fall 2025

The University of California enrolled 301,093 students in Fall 2025, an increase of 1,686 from the prior year, with more than 200,000 California resident undergraduates and 76.8% of students reported as state residents.

The University of California reported record enrollment for Fall 2025, reaching 301,093 students systemwide. The total represented an increase of 1,686 students from the prior year. More than 200,000 undergraduates were California residents, and 76.8 percent of all students were reported as state residents. The office of the UC President released the figures on Jan. 8 and university leaders commented on access and mobility. Key figures: - Total enrollment was 301,093 students in Fall 2025, up 1,686 from the previous year. - California resident undergraduates numbered over 200,000, and 76.8% of students were California residents. - UC Riverside recorded the largest campus increase with an additional 1,249 students, while UC Davis saw a drop of more than 650 students. - University officials said the numbers reflect a commitment to academic access and innovation, quoting James B. Milliken and Han Mi Yoon-Wu in the press release. - The system faced financial pressures after more than 400 federal research grants were reported eliminated or suspended, a reported loss of over $230 million, and a federal judge temporarily barred the government from withholding other funds in November 2025. Summary: The enrollment increase highlights continued demand for University of California programs and the system's role in social and economic mobility. At the same time, reported cuts to federal research funding and ongoing operational costs remain notable challenges. Undetermined at this time.