This semester, the University of Georgia embraced over 6,200 first-year students from close to 48,000 applicants. The new entrants represent one of the most academically distinguished classes in the university’s history.
This year, every aspect of the incoming class’s academic profile has improved. These first-year students arrive with an average of 11 Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or dual-enrollment courses and boast 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 and a mean SAT score of 1356, along with 215 Georgia valedictorians and salutatorians.
“We are thrilled to welcome the outstanding Class of 2029 to the University of Georgia,” stated President Jere W. Morehead. “I eagerly anticipate the significant influence they will have on our campus, our state, and beyond as they chase their academic ambitions and prepare for meaningful professions.”
About the incoming class
Roughly 80% of the first-year students are residents of Georgia, a figure notably higher than that of many other flagship state institutions across the nation. The incoming class includes students from 463 Georgia high schools, 142 Georgia counties (out of 159), as well as 45 states and 15 countries. Also, more than 2,050 transfer students are commencing their studies at the university this week, fulfilling UGA’s goal of enrolling one transfer student for every two new first-year students throughout the recent spring, summer, and fall terms.
“UGA’s incoming class continues to impress,” remarked Marisa Pagnattaro, vice president for instruction and senior vice provost for academic planning. “We’re dedicated to helping students flourish, and we’re eager to connect the Class of 2029 with our remarkable faculty, innovative programs, and all the opportunities that make education at UGA truly exceptional.”
Key first-year programs
To assist students in establishing early connections and a solid foundation, all first-year students engage in a First-Year Odyssey seminar. Conducted by tenure-track faculty in intimate group settings, these courses cultivate community and enhance intellectual curiosity in a nurturing atmosphere.
Now in its third year, the Connect Abroad program continues to expand, presenting weeklong, faculty-led study abroad opportunities in eight countries — twice the number of original destinations — for first-year students. The initiative also offers scholarships and financial aid to broaden accessibility.
Student success
This year, UGA joined a distinguished group, becoming one of nine public universities in the United States with a six-year graduation rate of 90% or more — a landmark achievement that underscores the university’s profound investment in student success.
Last November, UGA also celebrated a significant philanthropic milestone: the establishment of its 1,000th need-based scholarship. These Georgia Commitment Scholarships will continue to support generations of students for years ahead.
Another vital addition to student success initiatives will be the rollout of the Comprehensive Learner Record at UGA. Launching this fall, this innovative digital credential is designed to encapsulate a student’s complete range of learning experiences, from academic courses to leadership roles and practical projects. This dynamic tool will assist students in articulating their experiences more effectively than a traditional resume, showcasing their preparedness for life after graduation.
“The Class of 2029 is truly extraordinary, and we’re eager to welcome these bright, motivated students to the University of Georgia,” commented Benjamin C. Ayers, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “They bring a remarkable range of talents, skills, and viewpoints to our campus, and I have full confidence that UGA’s world-class education, practical learning opportunities, and new initiatives like the Comprehensive Learner Record will equip them to excel in their future endeavors.”
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