September 24, 2026

Bradley University has completed its annual fall student census, welcoming 1,160 new students for the Fall 2026 semester. The incoming class includes 876 first-year students, 180 transfer students, and 104 graduate students.

The number of new first-year students represents a more than 36% increase over last fall. Transfer students also increased by 20% The class joins Bradley as the university builds on a year of momentum that has brought new academic programs, expanded pathways to graduate and professional study, major improvements to campus facilities and residence halls, and more opportunities for students through premier club sports.

“Every new student brings something to Bradley, and this class is joining us at an exciting time,” said Bradley President James Shadid. “We’re building on the strengths of this university while creating new opportunities for students to learn, connect and succeed. Seeing more first-year students choose Bradley gives us even more reason to be optimistic about where we’re headed.”
“This increase in first-year students is an encouraging sign that more students and families are seeing the value of a Bradley education,” said Dr. Angie Cooksy, Vice President for Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communications. “Our recruitment efforts are connecting students with the personal attention, hands-on learning and opportunities that make Bradley special. We’re excited to welcome this class and help them find their place here.”

Bradley’s new first year students have a combined grade point average of 3.84, and enroll from 449 different high schools in 30 different states and 17 different countries. Transfer students come from 15 different states, Puerto Rico and seven countries, and new graduate students arrive from 19 different states and 17 different countries.

From their first days on Bradley’s campus, students can connect through more than 200 student organizations, Greek life, campus traditions and events. They work closely with faculty and mentors, participate in research, internships and study-abroad experiences, and receive personalized career preparation through the Smith Career Center. Investments in the premier student experience, including residence hall renovations and other campus improvements, are creating even more spaces and opportunities for students to learn, build relationships and make Bradley their own.

Bradley continues to earn national recognition for its academic experience and value. U.S. News & World Report ranked Bradley among the nation’s top 200 universities in its 2027 Best Colleges rankings, with the university earning recognition in six categories, including Best Value, Top Private Schools and National Universities. The Princeton Review also included Bradley in its 2027 edition of The Best 392 Colleges, and Bradley received a 4.5-star rating in Money’s 2026 Best Colleges in America.