
Samford University, a leading Christian university, has seen 15 years of consecutive enrolment records. The university, founded in 1841, offers undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts and a variety of graduate and professional schools. Samford's student body is diverse, with students from 45 states, Puerto Rico, and 16 countries. The university's total enrolment has reached a record high of 6,101 students, including 4,210 undergraduates. The university's popularity is reflected in its national rankings, such as ranking #2 for student character development and #8 for quality of career preparation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Total number of enrolled students | 6,101 |
| Undergraduate students | 4,210 |
| First-year full-time students | 1,087 |
| Transfer students | 245 |
| Number of academic schools | 10 |
| Number of athletic teams | 17 |
| Graduation Success Rate | 98% |
| Students from China | 26 |
| Students from Brazil | 4 |
| Students from South Korea | 3 |
| Students from Saudi Arabia | 2 |
| Year founded | 1841 |
| Location | Homewood, Alabama |
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What You'll Learn

Samford University's student population in 2024 (6,101 students)
Samford University has seen 16 years of consecutive enrolment growth, with a record-breaking number of first-year students and a high student retention rate. In 2023, Samford enrolled 5,791 students for the fall semester. This number increased to 6,101 students in 2024, marking the university's largest-ever total enrolment. Of these students, 4,210 were undergraduates, including 1,087 first-year, full-time students, and 245 transfer students. This is an increase from the previous year, which saw 1,080 first-year, full-time students. The student body at Samford University is diverse, attracting students from 45 states, Puerto Rico, and 16 countries. The university has a range of academic schools, including arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy, and public health.
The university's popularity is reflected in its national rankings. In 2024, Samford ranked 2nd nationally for student character development, 8th for quality of career preparation, and 10th among the top recommended colleges. In terms of popularity with international students, Samford has attracted students from Brazil, China, Canada, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia. College Factual ranks Samford highly for providing value to international students and for the quality of the educational experience it offers.
To accommodate its growing campus and student body, Samford University has undertaken construction projects, including a Campus Recreation, Wellness, and Athletic Complex, new residence halls, and a parking deck. These projects support the university's strategic growth plan and contribute to its raised national profile.
Samford University's consistent enrolment growth and high retention rate are testaments to its academic excellence and commitment to providing a rewarding, Christ-centered education. The university's national rankings and popularity with international students further highlight its reputation as a leading educational institution.
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Samford's international students
Samford University is a global community with students from 29 countries. The university offers support to international students throughout the application process and their time at Samford. International students are required to submit specific documentation, including proof of financial support and health information, before arriving at the university.
International students at Samford University contribute to both the academic and cultural diversity on campus. The university's admissions office assists undergraduate international students during the application process, while graduate students receive support from their specific program's admissions advisor. International students at Samford are required to maintain health insurance coverage that meets the university's minimum requirements. They must also undergo a TB skin test within 72 hours of arriving on campus and provide proof of immunization.
Samford University sponsors three types of J-1 exchange visitors: students, professors, and scholars. The J-1 Exchange Visitor visa promotes international education and cultural exchange. J-1 students must engage in a full course of study and can participate in either degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking programs. To enter the United States as a J-1 visitor, individuals need a DS-2019 form issued by Samford University and a valid J-1 visa stamp in their passport. Visitors from Canada are exempt from the visa stamp requirement but must have an endorsed DS-2019 form.
International students at Samford University also have the opportunity to work for wages on campus if they maintain legal status under U.S. government regulations. Additionally, they can apply for scholarships once they have applied to the university. The economic impact of international students at Samford is significant, with NAFSA reporting that they contribute $2.2 million and support 25 jobs in the U.S. economy.
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The university's record-breaking growth
Samford University has enjoyed 15 years of consecutive enrolment records, marking an unprecedented era of growth for the university. In the fall of 2023, Samford enrolled 5,791 students, and in 2024, it celebrated its 16th consecutive year of enrolment growth, with 6,101 students enrolled for the fall semester. This remarkable trend of sustained and strategic growth has elevated the university's national profile.
The growth is fuelled by a record-breaking class of first-year students and a historic student retention rate. The 92.87% freshmen-to-sophomore retention rate for the fall of 2024 is an all-time high for Samford, far surpassing the national average of 76%. The university's academic programmes continue to attract students, and its Christ-centred education keeps them engaged.
Samford's undergraduate students also marked an all-time high of 4,210 in 2024, with 1,087 first-year full-time students, surpassing the previous year's benchmark of 1,080. The university welcomed 245 transfer students, including 151 from Birmingham-Southern College. This growth in enrolment has been accompanied by the development of new infrastructure. Samford has constructed new residence halls for first-year students and Greek life, adding more than 650 beds for the Fall 2025 semester. Additionally, a new 165,000-square-foot Campus Recreation, Wellness & Athletic Complex is scheduled to open, along with a 550-space parking deck.
Samford University's growth is not limited to its domestic student population. The university has seen an increase in international students from various countries, including China, Brazil, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. College Factual has ranked Samford highly for providing a quality educational experience and value to these international students. The university established a study centre in London, England, in 1983, and continues to attract students from around the world to its academic programmes.
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Undergraduate enrolment in 2023 (5,791 students)
As of 2023, Samford University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,791 students. This number reflects a vibrant and diverse community of learners who are pursuing their academic goals at the university. The undergraduate population at Samford is the largest segment of the student body, and it comprises individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, interests, and aspirations. Among this population are first-time college students just beginning their academic journeys, as well as transfer students who bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience from their previous institutions.
The undergraduate enrollment figure includes students enrolled in a variety of academic programs across the university's eight undergraduate schools: the Howard College of Arts and Sciences, Brock School of Business, Orlean Beeson School of Education, Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing, McMullan School of Religion, School of the Arts, School of Public Health, and the School of Health Professions. Each school offers a unique range of degree programs, providing students with a diverse set of educational opportunities to align with their specific interests and career goals.
The student body is made up of a diverse group in terms of demographics. The student population includes individuals from a wide range of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, which contributes to a rich and inclusive learning environment. Additionally, the student population includes a mix of traditional-age college students as well as non-traditional students who bring a wealth of life experience to the classroom. This diversity enhances the educational experience, fostering a community of mutual respect and understanding.
With a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,791 students, Samford University is able to offer a personalized educational experience. The university prides itself on providing a student-focused approach to education, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for more individualized attention and support. This means that students have greater access to faculty members who are dedicated mentors and teachers, creating a supportive environment that fosters academic success and personal growth.
The undergraduate enrollment figure also reflects the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience. Samford University offers a variety of extracurricular activities, organizations, and athletic programs that enhance the overall student experience. The university encourages students to get involved in campus life, recognizing that these experiences contribute significantly to personal development and leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
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Samford's athletic teams (17 teams)
Samford University in Alabama is home to 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico, and 16 countries. The university has 10 academic schools and 17 athletic teams that compete in the Southern Conference.
Samford's athletic teams, also known as the Bulldogs, include eight men's and nine women's teams that participate at the NCAA Division I level. The university's teams have achieved notable success, earning the second-highest score in the nation with a remarkable 98% Graduation Success Rate by the NCAA.
The university's baseball team, softball team, and football team have all seen competitive action. For instance, the baseball team played a doubleheader against UNC Greensboro, winning both games with impressive scores of 14-2 and 12-2. The softball team has also competed in the Southern Conference Tournament, facing both Chattanooga and Mercer.
Samford's athletic achievements are not limited to the present day, as evidenced by their Hall of Fame. The 2025 class includes notable athletes such as James Bradberry from football, Ashley Cope from track and field, basketball players Joey Davenport and Bill Lankford, and the 1991 Football Team.
The university also hosts the Samford Athletics' S-Club Golf Tournament, which serves as a valuable platform for former student-athletes to reconnect and foster their relationships with the university.
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Frequently asked questions
As of fall 2024, Samford University has 6,101 students enrolled, making it the 16th consecutive year of record enrollment.
As of 2024, there are 4,210 undergraduate students at Samford University.
In 2020, Samford University was home to 26 Chinese students, 4 Brazilian students, 3 South Korean students, 2 Saudi Arabian students, and 26 Canadian students.









































