The 2023-24 academic year began its ascent Tuesday as the second-largest class in school history hit the UO campuses.

A total of 5,057 first-year students began their first day of classes; only last year’s class of 5,338 students was larger. The total included a record 38 percent who identify as domestic minority students.

Many students moved in last week with Unpack the Quack, followed by Week of Welcome activities and convocation on Sunday morning. President Karl Scholz officially marked the start of the school year, his first at the UO, with a welcome message to all members of the campus community.

The Class of 2027, the 148th incoming class at the university, also includes the largest number of Oregonians in school history.

Every county in Oregon, all 50 states, and 90 other countries are currently represented on the UO’s campuses with the arrival of this year’s students.

“That this class is the second-largest in school history is a reflection of the robust demand for the quality education students will receive at our university,” said Roger J. Thompson, vice president for student services and enrollment management.

“I am also proud of enrolling the most diverse class in school history and the largest number of Oregonians in the history of the institution.

“All of these numbers are a testament to the tremendous outreach work by our admissions team in building connections with the best and brightest students, who we are confident will excel and flourish at the University of Oregon.”

The average high school GPA is 3.75, also the second-highest in university history. Nearly 60 percent come to the UO with some college credit.

Learn more about the Class of 2027 and download the class photo on the Student Services and Enrollment Management website.

—By Jim Murez, University Communications
—Top photo: Students begin moving in during the Week of Welcome