CANTON -- St. Lawrence University has exceeded its enrollment targets for the incoming Class of 2021 this fall, which is expected to be one of the institution’s largest class sizes in recent history.

The record number of students who made a deposit to ensure their seat at St. Lawrence totaled more than 720, which was approximately 4.5 percent more than the target number. St. Lawrence also increased its yield over last year of students who make deposit payments from 23 to 25 percent of those who were accepted.

The total number of students who matriculate will not be final until a final count in September.

“This achievement is a strong testament to St. Lawrence University’s brand, areas of academic distinction, and student outcomes, particularly in a recruitment season that held a great deal of uncertainty for private colleges and universities in New York State,” said President William L. Fox. “Although it is difficult to assess the true impact of the new Excelsior Scholarship Program at SUNY and CUNY institutions in the first year, we had exceptional results finding the right students who are a great fit with St. Lawrence.”

The composition of the incoming class as it stands now is more than 14 percent students of color, more than 9 percent international, more than 16 percent first generation students, and 35 percent student-athletes. Forty-four students from across northern New York will enroll in the Class of 2021 at St. Lawrence University as part of the Augsbury/North Country Scholarship program. The Class of 2021 is expected to include more than 110 legacy students, that is, students with a relative who attended St. Lawrence.

Last week, St. Lawrence was recognized for its “relatively stable enrollment trend” by Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLP (S&P). S&P Global Ratings affirmed its stable outlook and "A’"long-term ratings on revenue and refunding bonds issued for St. Lawrence. According to S&P’s ratings release, “The affirmed long-term ratings reflect our view of St. Lawrence University's very strong enterprise profile and strong financial profile.”

More info: www.stlawu.edu.