Minnesota State, the state’s system of 33 higher-learning institutions, announced Monday that enrollment at its public colleges and universities has increased for a third year in a row, with this year’s enrollment growing by 4.2%. Enrollment saw a 2.3% increase in 2023 and a 7.7% rise in 2024.

The rise is the outcome of “initiatives focused on keeping the cost of college affordable for all Minnesotans,” according to Minnesota State in a press release, as well as “programs and quality instruction that prepares students for the workforce.”

This year’s growth comprises a 5.2% increase at the 26 colleges in the system, plus a 2.3% increase at its seven universities.

Factors driving the increase, per the release, include workforce development scholarships, which emphasize high-demand fields; the state’s Direct Admissions Minnesota program, which aims to speed the enrollment process for high school seniors; and what Minnesota State reports as the lowest tuition costs in the state.

Another contributor listed was the North Star Promise scholarship program, which is benefiting 9,639 students this fall. The program provides free college tuition for in-state students registered for a minimum of one credit who have a family adjusted gross income below $80,000.

“Enrollment at Minnesota State is vital to the state because our colleges and universities educate and train the talent needed for Minnesota businesses and communities to grow and prosper,” says Scott Olson, chancellor of Minnesota State, in the release. Sixty-four percent of Minnesota resident students who are pursuing an undergraduate credential are doing so at a Minnesota State college or university, the release states.

Around 270,000 students in total are enrolled at Minnesota State colleges and universities, making the system the third largest of its kind in the United States.