Fall 2026 incoming enrollment grows 15%, with first-time freshman enrollment increasing nearly 48%
PORTLAND, Ore. — Warner Pacific University recorded its largest incoming class since 2020 this fall, with 175 new students enrolling for Fall 2026 — a 15% increase over Fall 2025.
The incoming class includes 59 first-time freshmen and 116 transfer and post-baccalaureate students. First-time freshman enrollment increased 47.5% from last fall, reaching its highest level since 2021.
The growth comes as Warner Pacific begins a new chapter under President Dr. Christina Schnyders, who became the University’s ninth president on August 1.
“This incoming class reflects the growing impact of Warner Pacific’s mission, and the value students and families place on an education that is both transformational and purpose-driven,” Schnyders said. “As a Christ-centered university rooted in Portland, we are committed to creating pathways to higher education and opportunities for students to thrive academically, intellectually, socially, and spiritually within a community where they are known, supported, and challenged to grow.”
The Fall 2026 class also reflects Warner Pacific’s longstanding commitment to access and opportunity. Among new students, 40% are first-generation college students, 63% are students of color, and 46% are Pell-eligible.
Warner Pacific continues to draw heavily from Portland and the Pacific Northwest. Fifty-five percent of incoming students are from Oregon, including 42% from the greater Portland area, while 22% are from Washington. The class represents 15 states and five countries, with international students from Kenya, Ethiopia, Nepal, Nigeria and Vietnam.
Students are pursuing programs across the University, with particularly strong interest in health care. Approximately one-third of new students are pursuing Nursing or Pre-Nursing. Thirty-five percent are entering programs within the College of Arts & Sciences, and 18% are entering the School of Business. In addition, 58.3% of incoming students are student-athletes.
Scott Nelson, Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, said Warner Pacific’s combination of personal attention, affordability, location and Christian mission continues to resonate with prospective students and families.
“Warner Pacific offers students the close relationships and personal attention of a small University alongside the opportunities that come from living and learning in Portland,” Nelson said. “Students can build meaningful relationships with faculty and one another while having access to employers, health care organizations, schools, nonprofits and other opportunities throughout the region. Combined with our Christian foundation and commitment to affordability, that creates something truly distinctive.”
For Schnyders, the enrollment results are encouraging not simply because of the growth they represent, but because of the students behind them.
“Our enrollment growth is certainly encouraging, but what excites me most are the students behind these numbers. Each student brings a unique story, and we have the privilege of walking alongside them as they gain career-readiness, discover their purpose, and prepare to make meaningful contributions in their communities and professions. At Warner Pacific, we are committed to providing a transformational educational experience that develops the whole person and equips students to lead, serve, and make a difference in the world.”