This semester, the University of Georgia welcomed more than 6,200 first-year students from nearly 48,000 applicants. The incoming students represent one of the most academically qualified classes in the university’s history.
This year, every measure of the incoming class’s academic profile increased. These first-year students arrive with an average of 11 Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or dual-enrollment courses and an average high school GPA of 4.17, marking the ninth consecutive year that the average weighted high school GPA of the incoming class exceeds 4.0. The Class of 2029 also posts an average ACT score of 31, an average SAT score of 1356 and includes 215 Georgia valedictorians and salutatorians.
“We are excited to welcome the exceptional Class of 2029 to the University of Georgia,” said President Jere W. Morehead. “I look forward to seeing the tremendous impact they will make on our campus, our state, and the world as they pursue their academic goals and prepare for meaningful careers.”
About the incoming class
Approximately 80% of the first-year students are Georgia residents, a percentage far above that of many other state flagship institutions in the country. The incoming class includes students from 463 Georgia high schools, 142 Georgia counties (out of 159), 45 states and 15 nations. More than 2,050 transfer students also are beginning their studies at the university this week, meeting UGA’s goal of enrolling one transfer student for every two new first-year students across the most recent spring, summer and fall semesters.
“UGA’s incoming class continues to impress,” said Marisa Pagnattaro, vice president for instruction and senior vice provost for academic planning. “We’re devoted to helping students thrive, and we’re excited to connect the Class of 2029 with our extraordinary faculty, innovative programs, and all the opportunities that make learning at UGA truly exceptional.”
(Graphic by Lindsay Robinson/UGA)
Key first-year programs
To help students build early connections and a strong foundation, all first-year students participate in a First-Year Odyssey seminar. Taught by tenure-track faculty in small group settings, these courses foster community and promote intellectual curiosity in a supportive environment.
Now in its third year, the Connect Abroad program continues to grow, offering weeklong, faculty-led study abroad trips in eight countries — twice the original number of destinations — for first-year students. The program also provides scholarships and financial assistance to increase access.
Student success
This year, UGA joined a select group, becoming one of nine public universities in the U.S. with a six-year graduation rate of 90% or higher — a milestone that reflects the university’s deep investment in student success.
Last November, UGA also celebrated a major philanthropic achievement: the endowment of its 1,000th need-based scholarship. These Georgia Commitment Scholarships will continue to benefit generations of students for years to come.
Another key addition to student success initiatives will be the introduction of the Comprehensive Learner Record at UGA. Launching in the fall, this innovative, digital credential is designed to capture a student’s full range of learning experiences, from academic courses to leadership roles and hands-on projects. This dynamic tool will help students tell their stories better than any resume and highlight their readiness for the world after graduation.
“The Class of 2029 is truly remarkable, and we’re excited to welcome these bright, driven students to the University of Georgia,” said Benjamin C. Ayers, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “They bring an impressive range of talents, skills, and perspectives to our campus, and I have no doubt that UGA’s world-class education, hands-on learning opportunities, and new initiatives like the Comprehensive Learner Record will prepare them to excel in their careers.”
Written By: Heather Skyler
