The fall semester starts Tuesday at Saint Augustine's University, but campus wasn't as bustling as usual.

That's because enrollment is down significantly compared to previous years at the Raleigh-based HBCU. A look at enrollment numbers from recent years shows a dramatic decrease in students:

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  • 2002-2003: 1,552 students
    • 2012-2013: 1,142 students
      • 2022-2023: 1,108 students
        • 2024-2025: 200 students

          The university was initially planning to start the semester on Aug. 19. However, Interim President Marcus Burgess said the university needed more time to make maintenance upgrades to dorms and classrooms.

          It also gave the university time to secure a loan to pay student balances, months-overdue paychecks for faculty and staff and other immediate needs in order to hold classes.

          Since then, multiple former faculty members told WRAL they started receiving paychecks. However, it’s not clear when recent alumni and students will receive money owed to them from reimbursement checks.

            The big drop comes as the university works through a series of financial issues.

            Students are trying to remain upbeat entering the year.

            "I have wonderful teachers," said Zay, a senior who's studying theatre. "I don't want to leave a place that's helping me."

            "I like how the campus is small," said Izreal Pennerman, a junior who's studying public health. "I get to learn more."

            Earlier this month, SAU secured a loan that has helped ensure the school has funds to conduct classes for the fall semester.

            Burgess said SAU was working to finalize funding to pay overdue student refunds and staff salaries from last semester.

            Several events are planned this week to make students feel welcome. Burgess said students can expect new equipment in laundry rooms, a refreshed student center, a new management system, upgrades to its HVAC system and upgrades to dorms and classrooms.

            The university is still in a probationary period for its accreditation. Staff will be focused on getting back in compliance and prove that SAU is financially fit this semester. They’ll have until December, when its accrediting board will make its final decision.

            In July, Burgess told WRAL the university would use funding to help pay for audits, which are required to be in compliance.

            “We have to get these audits done," Burgess said. "It's either you do, or you don't. This time around, there is no other arbitration; there is not an appeals decision. Either you are in compliance with SACSCOC or you're not.”