Grand Canyon University Defies Federal Scrutiny, Projects Record 133,000 Students

Grand Canyon University is on track to welcome a record 133,000 students for the 2025–26 academic year, cementing its place as the largest Christian university in the United States. The milestone comes even as the institution endured years of heightened scrutiny from the federal government.

During the Biden administration, Grand Canyon University (GCU) faced numerous federal probes into its operations, including actions by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). However, several of those cases have recently been dismissed.

The FTC itself acknowledged the setbacks, stating:

"This case, which we inherited from the previous administration, was filed nearly two years ago and has suffered losses in two motions to dismiss."

The dismissals mark a significant legal vindication for GCU, underscoring the university's ability to rebound and continue expanding despite years of heightened federal scrutiny.

Despite the pressure, GCU has maintained a frozen tuition rate for 17 consecutive years and continued expanding both its campus and online presence. Officials now point to a series of recent legal dismissals as vindication, reinforcing the university's ability to rebound and move forward.

Enrollment projections include nearly 35,000 students on its Phoenix campus and 98,000 online, further strengthening its national reach. GCU has also invested in campus facilities, workforce partnerships, and faith-based initiatives, which leaders say will sustain long-term growth.

By combining affordability, faith, and resilience in the face of federal challenges, GCU has positioned itself as both a leader in Christian higher education and one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation.