University enrolls largest class in six years
Bluffton University has enrolled its highest number of first-year students since 2013-14. The first-year class of 250 also has an average GPA of 3.26 and the average ACT score of 21.
“Bluffton is thrilled to enroll our largest class in six years and to have the largest number of international students on campus since 2003," said Robin Bowlus, vice president for enrollment management and marketing.
"It is an exciting time on campus and a true joy to walk alongside our students as they prepare for their life and vocation.”
Twenty-five percent of students in the first-year class are considered underrepresented, an increase from 19 percent the previous year. The first-year cohort also includes seven international students for a total of 25 international students on campus, the highest number since 2003.
Nineteen transfer students are enrolled this fall, coming from five states—including Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio.
“Bluffton’s alumni and friends are the top influencers for students coming to Bluffton,” said Bowlus. “Their passion and excitement for their Bluffton experience is helping Bluffton’s story reach students who are looking for a university that will help them discovery their greater purpose.”
Stories Posted This Week
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
- October 21 Bluffton Schools athletics lineup, streaming
- Village of Beaverdam requests suggestions for park grant application
- Charles “Chuck” Wendall Collins, 63, owned Eagle Press Repairs
- Dwain L. Leiber, 87, owned Leiber Garage
- Kimberly Dawn Murphy, 55, taught at Findlay City Schools
- October 21 Bluffton Schools 2-hour delay
- Kaleidoscope Farms honoring veterans, thanking current troops, Nov. 8
- Filmmaker to preview documentary exploring life beyond incarceration
- ONU mobile health clinic at Senior Center on Oct. 28
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Columbus Grove-Bluffton Rd. closure planned for up to three weeks
- Two Pirate volleyball players make 1st team All-NWC
- 3 Pirate girls 1st team All-NWC soccer
- Pirates dominate All-NWC boys soccer awards
- Local filmmaker focuses on memories made by people and places
- Bluffton Public Library: Medicare 101
- BHS artists prepare Yankee Doodle Christmas Trees for Jingle Bell Stroll
Monday, October 19, 2026
- Beavers sports roundup, October 14-18
- Ada Icon headlines, October 19
- JessExpress Travel is the Icon's newest advertiser
- Gatchel 7th in girls, Pirates 4th at NWC cross country meet
- Veterans invited to Pandora-Gilboa banquet, November 10
- Wearable sculptures featured in exhibit On Soft Ground
- Historic depot rentals offered for meetings and parties