For the second year in a row, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) is on pace to again exceed its enrollment goal. The university is currently trending 8% ahead of last year’s certified enrollment of 8,762. That surge is driven in large part by a nearly 15.0 percent increase in the number of first-time, full-time freshmen. Additionally, PVAMU has noted a 2-4% increase in retention for continuing students.

While these record enrollment numbers are not yet finalized, as enrollment numbers are not official until after the 20th day of classes, the preliminary results mark extraordinary enrollment growth.

Given last year’s phenomenal growth, the university put several measures in place to accommodate an increased student body including:

*significantly increasing course offerings at the freshman and sophomore levels as well as increasing the upper division course offerings as needed;

*designating more on-campus freshman housing;

*scheduling new student orientation earlier and increasing capacity;

*building a new 466 bed living environment;

*expanding off-campus housing partnerships;

*increasing transportation services for students living in off campus housing;

*adding a new dining facility; and

*structuring a new laundry facility and creating additional parking.

Though the university continues to provide residential housing for about 65% of its undergraduate students, including students with families, the unprecedented growth has caused higher demand for on-campus and near-campus housing.

“Every year, the university does its best to plan for the number of students who will enroll. Increases in enrollment show us that the appeal of our offerings continues to grow. While we can carefully plan for the increase in demand, we can sometimes underestimate the number of students wanting to get that unique PVAMU experience. As on-campus housing reaches capacity, the university will continue to seek opportunities to partner with near-campus apartment properties. Additionally, students without vehicles will have access to university transportation options. We deeply regret the inconvenience to our students and families and are working diligently to accommodate these unexpected needs,” said Ruth J. Simmons, interim president.

“We are asking everyone to bear with us as we work to provide the best possible customer service for our students and parents,” said Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Felecia M. Nave.

Students still in need of housing, for a list of off-campus housing options please visit

http://www.pvamu.edu/auxiliaryservices/auxiliaryenterprises/off-campus-housing-list/