Enrollment across the State University of New York campus system has increased for the third consecutive year, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office announced Tuesday.

This is the first segment of gains three years in a row since 2007-2009. The fall 2022 to fall 2023 year was the first enrollment increase in 10 years.

Enrollment between fall 2024 and fall 2025 increased 2.9% SUNY-wide. First-time first year enrollment is also up overall with an increase of 3.1% year over year, and up 8.5% over the past three years. 

In addition, the state saw a 5% enrollment increase at SUNY community colleges and 4.7% increase for transfer students. 

“SUNY campuses are welcoming more students for the third year in a row, showing that when we make higher education more accessible and affordable, we open the door to opportunity for everyone,” Hochul said in a statement. “With the success of SUNY Reconnect and the continued rise in community college enrollment, more New Yorkers are taking advantage of the chance to earn a world-class, affordable degree in fields that lead to good-paying, high-demand jobs and a brighter future.” 

SUNY Reconnect is a program that offers adults ages of 25 to 55 who haven’t earned a college degree a chance to pursue a tuition-free associate’s degree, with books and supplies covered. It was launched this fall with more than 5,600 New Yorkers enrolled, saving, on average, approximately $2,000 per year.

“More students are choosing to pursue an excellent and affordable education at the SUNY institution of their dreams,” SUNY Chancellor John B. King said in a statement.