FAMU has strategically improved the academic prowess of its freshman class, with 23% of the 2023 cohort ranking in the top 10% of their high school graduating classes, according to its 2024 Accountability Plan that was recently approved by Trustees, and submitted to the FL Board of Governors. While the 23% falls slightly short of the university's target of 27%, it marks a significant advancement compared to 2019 figures, reflecting a nine percent increase.
In 2019, only 14% of FAMU freshmen secured a spot in the upper echelon of their high school classes. The improvement underscores the university's commitment to improve its four-year graduation rate by to 58 percent in 2028.
FAMU has set a goal for to fall 2024 intake: to have 30% of its incoming freshmen from the top decile of their graduating classes.
The university's continued focus on recruiting and nurturing top talent not only enhances its reputation but also strengthens its position as a leading institution of higher education.
The university's efforts to attract and support academically talented students have been multifaceted. Enhanced scholarship programs, targeted recruitment initiatives, and expanded academic support services have all contributed to this positive trend.
FAMU efforts extends beyond admissions, the university has continually invested its resources and programs designed to empower students to excel in their academic pursuits and prepare them for successful careers beyond graduation.
So far this year, the university has seen a surge in applications for fall 2024 admissions, with a record-breaking 24,000 applications received for just 1,600 slots. The has buoyed by the university's inclusion in the prestigious US News & World Report Top 100 public universities ranking and its third-place ranking among all Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), sharing the spotlight with institutions like Spelman College and Howard University, highlight its growing reputation.
Additionally, FAMU's triumphant victory in the Celebration Bowl, broadcasted nationwide on ABC TV last fall, has further elevated its popularity among students.