OSU-Cascades enrolls 1,258 students for fall 2026 term
Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- Oregon State University–Cascades enrolled 1,258 total students for the fall 2026 term, according to preliminary data released Thursday.
The fall entry includes 296 new undergraduate students, driven by growth in mechanical engineering and several other recent degree programs.
The preliminary report shows significant gains in degree programs established to meet regional and national workforce demands. The mechanical engineering major, launched in 2024, added 20 students this fall, representing an increase of nearly 38%. Growth was also recorded in accountancy, elementary education, biology and social science majors.
The enrollment report coincides with the campus marking its 25th anniversary in Bend. Christine Pollard serves as the interim chancellor and dean of OSU-Cascades.
“Students continue to be drawn to OSU-Cascades and the unique opportunities that come with learning in Bend,” Pollard said. “As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, students consistently point to our personalized learning environment, innovative degree programs, hands-on experiences and connections to employers, alongside the outdoor opportunities that make Bend and Central Oregon a special place to live and learn.”
The incoming first-year class includes 160 students, with 29% originating from Central Oregon. First-year students entered the university with an average high school GPA of 3.51, and two-thirds of the cohort arrived with prior college credit.
Transfer students represent another major segment of enrollment. Out of 108 new transfer students this term, 44% moved from Central Oregon Community College through the Degree Partnership Program. Across all class levels, 416 transfer students are currently enrolled at the Bend campus, with 61% having participated in the community college partnership program.
Oregon residents make up 77% of the total student body, with 45% coming from Central Oregon. Nonresident students represent 35 other U.S. states. California accounts for the largest out-of-state group with 105 students, followed by Washington with 52, Colorado with 17, Texas with 16 and Hawaii with 12.
According to the demographic report, 25% of enrolled students are the first in their families to attend college and 39% of undergraduate students demonstrate high financial need. Additionally, 6% of students complete their coursework entirely online through Oregon State University's Ecampus while receiving advising support at the Bend campus.
Graduate programs account for 230 students pursuing master's degrees or a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Student ages on campus span from 17 to 73.
Official enrollment figures for OSU-Cascades will be finalized in late October during the fourth week of the fall term.
