First-day enrollment of 8,640 students at Missouri University of Science and Technology is the highest in the campus’ 146-year history. Ninety-eight percent of the freshmen enrolled on the first day of classes say they chose Missouri S&T for its reputation for academic quality.

“Students and their families continue to recognize the value and quality of a Missouri S&T education, and they see the S&T experience as a pathway to a better life,” says Laura Stoll, vice provost and dean of enrollment management at Missouri S&T. 

The quality of this year’s college students remains high with the average ACT score at 28.1. This is among the upper 10 percent in the nation.

This fall’s enrollment set records in female, minority and underrepresented students. The campus continues to attract first-generation college students; 21 percent are the first in their families to attend college.

The fall semester began Monday, Aug. 22. Official enrollment figures for the fall 2016 semester will be available after the fourth week of classes.