Douglas Olsen
The world's largest universities in terms of student population vary depending on whether you count online students, hybrid enrollees, or only on-campus students. Indira Gandhi National Open University in Delhi, India, is the largest university in the world, with more than 4,000,000 students, or even 7.14 million according to another source, most of whom are enrolled in open and distance learning. The largest university in the United States by in-person enrollment is Arizona State University, with more than 70,000 students, or more than 75,000 by another count. The largest universities by total enrollment, including online students, are Western Governors University, Southern New Hampshire University, and the University of Phoenix, each with over 100,000 students.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Largest university by student population | Arizona State University (ASU) |
| Number of students | 75,000+ (as of 2024) |
| Undergraduate students | 65,200 (as of 2024) |
| Graduate students | 14,400 (as of 2024) |
| Number of campuses | 4 physical locations and 3 additional locations |
| Student housing | First-year undergraduates are expected to live on campus |
| Alumni network | N/A |
| Tuition fees | In-state: $11,310; Out-of-state: $31,450 (as of 2024) |
| Campus area | N/A |
| Student organizations | N/A |
| Diversity | Serves students from across the U.S. and the world |
| Location | Tempe, Arizona |
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What You'll Learn
Arizona State University: 75,000+ students
Arizona State University (ASU) is a public research university located in Tempe, Arizona. With over 75,000 students, it is the largest college in the US by on-campus and hybrid enrollment. Hybrid enrollees include students who take some classes online and some on campus.
ASU offers more than 400 undergraduate degree programs from its 16 colleges and over 170 cross-discipline centres and institutes for students. It also offers more than 450 graduate degree and certificate programs. The university has over 183,000 students attending classes, with more than 74,000 students attending online and 142,000 undergraduates and over 41,000 postgraduates across its four campuses and four regional learning centres throughout Arizona.
ASU has a large international student population, with 10,268 international students, or 14.3% of the total student body, representing more than 150 nations. The university also has a significant number of veteran and military-affiliated students, with more than 18,000 enrolled for the fall 2024 semester, setting a university record. Additionally, 42% of ASU undergraduates are first-generation college students, and the university has an 85% retention rate of first-year students.
ASU's student government for on-campus students is called the Residence Hall Association (RHA). Each of ASU's campuses has an RHA that operates independently to improve the quality of residence hall life and provide a cohesive voice for the residents. ASU's athletic teams are called the Sun Devils, and they compete in 26 varsity-level sports in NCAA Division I as a member of the Big 12 Conference. The Sun Devils have won 165 national championships, including 24 NCAA trophies.
ASU is recognised for its innovation and impact. It has been ranked as the country's most innovative school by US News & World Report and is known for its research excellence, ranking fifth in the US for research expenditures among universities without a medical school. The university also prioritises sustainability and was ranked third on the Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Partnership Top 30 College & University Partners listing.
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Texas A&M University: 68,367 students
University education is often associated with a vibrant and diverse student life. Texas A&M University, with its large student population, is a testament to this. As of the fall semester of 2021, Texas A&M University had an impressive enrolment of 72,982 students, making it the largest university in the United States by enrolment. This number has decreased slightly, and the university currently has 68,367 students. Texas A&M University is a top-tier public research university with a strong reputation in various fields, including engineering, business, agriculture, and science. Its College Station campus, located in Brazos Valley, is conveniently situated near three of the ten largest cities in the United States. The main campus boasts a diverse range of academic buildings, including those dedicated to engineering, architecture, geosciences, science, education, and liberal arts.
The university's large student population brings numerous advantages. Firstly, it fosters a dynamic and multicultural community, with students hailing from all 50 states and over 120 countries worldwide. This diversity enriches the learning experience, exposing students to different cultures and perspectives, which is invaluable in today's globalised world. Secondly, a larger student population enables Texas A&M University to offer a broader range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. The university hosts over 1,000 student organisations, catering to various interests, from academic and service groups to religious, social, and common interest clubs. This variety ensures that students can pursue their passions, develop new skills, and build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.
The university is also known for its strong traditions and school spirit. Traditions such as the 12th Man, Aggie Muster, and Midnight Yell enhance the sense of community and pride among students. The Aggie Network, one of the most active and supportive alumni organisations, further strengthens this sense of community and provides valuable opportunities and connections for students. The university's size and reputation also contribute to its economic impact on the surrounding community. The income generated through tuition fees, research grants, donations, and other funding sources benefit not only the university but also the local economy, creating a positive ripple effect for local businesses.
Texas A&M University's College Station campus offers a well-rounded and engaging student experience. The campus life is vibrant and social, with football games, a wide variety of clubs, and research opportunities. The engineering program, in particular, stands out for its multiple engineering buildings dedicated to specific majors, providing a top-notch educational experience. The campus is also known for its beauty and well-kept grounds, enhancing the overall student life experience. The university's size, combined with its academic offerings and vibrant community, makes Texas A&M University an attractive choice for students seeking a diverse and enriching educational journey.
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Ohio State University: 61,170 students
University student populations are a good indicator of the size of a university. The Ohio State University, also known as OSU, has a student population of 61,170 students. This makes it one of the largest universities in the United States by enrolment.
The university consists of sixteen colleges and offers over 400 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It has nearly 50,000 undergraduate students and almost 15,000 graduate students. The Ohio State University is a public land-grant research university located in Columbus, Ohio. It was founded in 1870 and has since grown to become one of the largest universities in the United States.
The benefits of a large student population are significant for both the university and the surrounding community. Firstly, a larger student population contributes to a more diverse and vibrant campus life. It attracts students from various cultural backgrounds, creating a multicultural community that enriches the learning experience and prepares students for the real world. Secondly, a large student body allows the university to offer a broader range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, giving students more opportunities to explore their interests.
The economic impact of a large university is also notable. The income generated from tuition fees, research grants, and donations boosts the local economy. Additionally, the university's faculty and staff spend their salaries in the community, further contributing to the local economy. The presence of a large student population can also help local businesses thrive.
The Ohio State University's record enrolment in recent years reflects its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education. The university has initiatives in place, such as the Buckeye Opportunity Program, to ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their academic goals.
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NYU: 60,000 students
New York University, or NYU, is a private research university based in New York City. It is the largest private research university in the US, with a total enrollment of more than 60,000 students, including 27,247 international students, across over 400 programs. NYU has five major centres in Manhattan and sites in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America, with degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai.
NYU is one of the most prominent and respected research universities worldwide, with top-ranked academic programs and a highly selective admissions process, accepting fewer than one in eight undergraduates. The university's students, faculty, and alumni benefit from a stimulating environment that fosters intellectual and cultural experiences. NYU's mission is to be an international centre of scholarship, teaching, and research, attracting outstanding faculty and students.
The university values diversity and draws upon the varied backgrounds of its community, ensuring a wide range of perspectives in scholarship and teaching. It stands out among top US universities for its representation of low-income and first-generation students. NYU's large student population contributes to a vibrant and diverse campus life, with over 300 student clubs and organisations. Approximately 11,000 NYU students reside in university housing in New York's Greenwich Village or Brooklyn Heights.
The benefits of a large university extend beyond its students and campus. NYU, for example, positively impacts its surrounding communities and cities. The presence of a large student population boosts the local economy, benefiting local businesses and contributing to the steady income stream through tuition fees, research grants, and other funding sources. NYU's extensive alumni network includes successful professionals across various fields, from the sciences to the arts and government.
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University of Maryland: 15,000+ faculty and staff
The University of Maryland is a public land-grant research university in College Park, Maryland, with a student population of 41,725. It is the largest university in the state of Maryland and the Washington metropolitan area. The university's eleven schools and colleges offer over 200 degree-granting programs, including 113 undergraduate majors, 107 master's programs, and 83 doctoral programs.
The University of Maryland has a rich history, dating back to its founding in 1856. Initially known as Maryland Agricultural College, it was acquired by the state in 1916 and renamed Maryland State College. The university's enrollment has grown significantly over the years, with nearly 10,000 students by 1951 and a current total student count of over 41,000.
The university boasts a diverse and vibrant community, with 76.4% of its students being Maryland residents and 23.6% from other states. It has a strong research focus, with combined research expenditures of $1.4 billion from the University of Maryland College Park and the University of Maryland Baltimore, ranking #11 among public institutions. The university also has a high number of faculty and staff, with 4,541 faculty members and 6,484 staff members, contributing to a dynamic and supportive learning environment.
The University of Maryland is known for its academic excellence and offers a wide range of degree programs. With its large student population, the university provides a multicultural and enriching learning experience, fostering relationships and cultural exchange. The university's proximity to Washington, D.C., has also led to numerous research partnerships with the federal government.
The University of Maryland's athletic teams are known as the Maryland Terrapins, and they compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Big Ten Conference. The university's campus is easily accessible via the Washington Metro's Green Line, with a stop adjacent to the campus, providing convenient transportation options for students and staff.
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Frequently asked questions
The Indira Gandhi National Open University in Delhi, India, is the largest university in the world by student population, with around 7.14 million students enrolled.
Arizona State University is the largest university in the US by on-campus and hybrid enrollment, with more than 75,000 students.
Yes, the largest universities in the US by enrollment are fully online colleges: Western Governors University, Southern New Hampshire University, and the University of Phoenix, with enrollments surpassing 100,000 in 2023-2024.
Yes, Anadolu University in Turkey has a student population of more than 2 million students, while Azad University, a system of private universities across Iran and several other countries, has a total enrollment of over 1.5 million students.
