Inside INdiana Business is reporting that Purdue University is expecting an incoming freshman class of 8,300, which would be the largest in school history. The university says the record total is largely fueled by an increase in out-of-state students.
In all, Purdue expects the overall undergraduate enrollment to also mark an all-time high. The school says it is prepared to meet the increased demand for housing and food service, and hiring is underway for additional faculty.
“We’ve been planning for this type of increase with new housing units under construction, expanded and additional food and dining options, and much needed lab space,” said Purdue President Mitch Daniels. “We will all have to pitch in to ensure that this record class will receive the outstanding academic experience that is the hallmark of Purdue University.”
In April, Daniels announced a seventh consecutive year of flat tuition on the West Lafayette campus. The tuition freeze now extends through the 2019-2020 academic year. Purdue’s Board of Trustees recently indefinitely extended Daniels’ contract.