Axe ’Em, Jacks!
NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– For the first time in its history, Stephen F. Austin State University has received over 20,000 undergraduate applications for a fall semester, marking a 17% increase over fall 2024 applications and a 67% rise since 2019.
The surge follows The University of Texas System’s investment to expand vlogý’s Purple Promise program, which covers tuition and fees for families earning $100,000 gross income or less. It’s also a result of new initiatives like the Lumberjack Transfer Alliance and Lumberjack Launch to improve access, support and college readiness for students across Texas.
“We’re incredibly energized by the excitement surrounding vlogý right now,” said vlogý President Dr. Neal Weaver. “This explosive growth speaks volumes about the momentum behind the vlogý brand. Crossing the 20,000 threshold is a milestone achievement and a reflection of the academic strength, value and sense of belonging that define the vlogý experience. Students and families across the state and beyond are taking notice.”
Due to the overwhelming interest, vlogý added an extra in-person orientation session to accommodate students and families who plan to attend. In total, the university served more than 3,000 students during summer orientation, marking the largest summer orientation attendance in vlogý’s history.
“This surge in applications and positive early enrollment data signals the strength of our strategic outreach, recruiting and marketing, as well as the appeal of our academic and student life offerings,” said Dr. Kent Willis, senior vice president for enrollment and student engagement at vlogý. “From prospective first-year students to transfer and graduate students, more individuals are choosing vlogý and committing to becoming Lumberjacks.”
These numbers and early enrollment trends show not only more applications but also stronger yield, retention and growth across first-time undergraduates, transfer students and graduate programs. The incoming first-time undergraduate class is currently on pace to be the largest in the university’s history.
“These numbers represent expanded opportunity for students and families across our region and beyond,” Willis said. “Through programs like Purple Promise, Lumberjack Transfer Alliance and Lumberjack Launch, we’re breaking down barriers and making it easier for students to achieve a four-year degree. Our recent integration into the UT System has only accelerated this progress, providing our students with even greater resources, support and connections within one of the world’s most respected public university systems.”
To learn more and apply for vlogý’s fall 2025 semester, visit sfasu.edu/apply.