ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (August 24, 2026) — On August 31, 765 new students from 28 states and 36 countries will begin their Augustana College journey. The incoming class includes 678 first-year students, 82 transfer students, and a total of five non-degree and exchange students, with 25 languages represented and a range of experiences and perspectives.
Augustana received more than 8,600 applications for the incoming class.
Kent Barnds, executive vice president for strategy and innovation, said relationships, mentorship, and guidance will be central to helping members of the Class of 2030 discover who they are and what they want to do with their lives.
“Each of our incoming students brings a unique perspective to Augustana,” Barnds said.
“Our responsibility now is to help each of them find a strong sense of belonging and pursue opportunities that will prepare them for meaningful lives and careers.”
The average GPA for the Class of 2030 is 3.42. A total of 67 students are members of the Austin E Knowlton Honors Program and 21 students are members of the Brenda Barnes Leadership Academy.
A total of 281 students are receiving either the Dean’s Scholarship or Presidential Scholarship, which can total up to $128,000 over four years, while 54 students are receiving music scholarships.
Additionally, 179 students are receiving grants through Augustana Possible, an innovative financial aid program that meets up to 100% of a qualifying student’s demonstrated financial need, determined by the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
Another 287 students are receiving Federal Pell Grants, further reinforcing Augustana’s commitment to making a high-quality liberal arts education accessible to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
The top ten programs identified by the entering cohort include:
• Biology and pre-health programs
• Business administration
• Psychology and neuroscience
• Education• Engineering• Kinesiology• Computer science
• Undecided• Accounting• Political science
Augustana’s admissions staff team traveled extensively to connect with prospective members of the Class of 2030. Team members visited 333 US high schools and spent 104 days abroad, visiting nineteen countries.
The majority of students will move into Andreen, Seminary, and Westerlin residence halls August 28.
Opening Convocation will take place at Charles D Lindberg Stadium that day, marking the beginning of Welcome Week.
Welcome Week activities are designed to help new students build connections, become familiar with campus, and prepare for their first semester. Among the traditions is the Class of 2030 gathering on the football field for an Augie “A” photo of the full class.
*Data is gathered post-admission and is based on the first-year cohort of 624; information on race/ethnicity does not impact the admission process.
