LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Students are seeking higher education in record numbers. Bellarmine University says its incoming class of 634 students, is the largest class since 2018. BU says that is a 16% increase over 2022.

What You Need To Know

  • Bellarmine set to welcome largest class of students in four years

  • BU says that is a 16% increase over 2022

  • The school saw gains in students of color, first generation students and Pell Grant recipients

  • Bellarmines total enrollment for the 2023-24 year is over 3,000

Bellarmine says this class isn’t just large, it helped the university make strides in several key areas.

  • 33% are students of color, a 6% gain year-over-year and the largest number in Bellarmine’s history. 

  • 44% are first-generation college students, up 17% over last year. These students will become the first generation of their families to earn a four-year degree.

  • 46% are Pell Grant-eligible, up 13% over last year. Students who are eligible for Pell Grants demonstrate high financial need based on federal student aid eligibility requirements. 

“This uptick in enrollment tells me that students are continuing to search for a values-based, holistic education in the liberal arts that prepares them for meaningful lives and rewarding careers,” said Bellarmine’s president, Dr. Susan M. Donovan.

Bellarmine’s total undergraduate and graduate enrollment for 2023-24 is 3,002. 

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