When you're picking a university for grad school or even undergrad, the alumni network might not be the first thing you think about, but it probably should be. The largest alumni associations can make a big difference- whether it’s for career growth, networking, or lifelong community. It’s not just about where you study, but who you stay connected with long after graduation.

A strong and large alumni base means career support, connections, and a community that lasts long after graduation. So, how big are these networks really? And which schools top the list? Whether you're applying to schools or just curious, here’s a quick look at the top 10 largest alumni associations in the US right now.

What is an Alumni Association?

An alumni association is a network of a school’s former students who stay connected through events, mentorship programs, career support, and fundraising. Most colleges run official alumni associations that help keep the community active and engaged.

Why does it matter?

Being part of a strong alumni network means you’re never really starting from scratch. Whether you're job hunting, looking for a mentor, moving to a new city, or just wanting to reconnect, there's always someone to reach out to. Plus, schools with large, active alumni bases often offer more resources, better opportunities, and a stronger sense of belonging, even years after graduation.

The 10 Largest Alumni Associations in the US

Big alumni numbers aren’t just bragging rights—they translate to real-world impact. These schools have built powerhouse alumni associations that do way more than host reunions—they create opportunities, connections, and lifelong communities. Let’s take a look at the universities that are crushing it when it comes to alumni size, reach, and engagement in 2025.

1. Penn State University (~800,000 living alumni)

Penn State boasts a massive alumni presence of about 800,000 living grads and holds the title of the world’s largest dues-paying alumni association. This network spans 275+ affiliate groups and 100+ chapters worldwide, creating a robust system of volunteer leadership and peer support. From pep rallies and virtual speaker series to the LionLink mentorship platform, Penn Staters stay connected early and often engaged through programs throughout the year. This network isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a career-enhancing, community-creating force you’ll tap into as soon as you step on campus.

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2. Indiana University (~775,000 living alumni)

Indiana University boasts nearly 775,000 living alumni, making it the second-largest alumni network in the country. The IU Alumni Association is incredibly active, supporting more than 160 chapters and providing alumni with resources like virtual events, travel programs, scholarships, and lifelong learning tools. The “My IU” platform also helps grads stay connected with their peers and their alma mater. Whether you’re in the Midwest or abroad, there’s likely a fellow Hoosier nearby and a community waiting to welcome you.

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3. University of Michigan (~690,000 living alumni)

With over 690,000 living alumni, Michigan’s network spans the globe through 100+ local clubs and affinity groups. The Alumni Association of the University of Michigan (AAUM) offers everything from career services and mentorship to leadership programming and alumni-exclusive experiences. They’re also known for keeping Wolverine pride alive through annual events, reunions, and professional development opportunities. No matter where you are, this is a network that shows up—whether it’s for jobs, community, or maize-and-blue spirit.

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4. Ohio State University (~600,000+ living alumni)

Ohio State’s alumni network includes more than 600,000 living graduates, and it’s one of the most energized communities in the country. The OSU Alumni Association hosts local chapter events, alumni awards, mentorship programs, and even special career services for both new grads and seasoned professionals. Buckeye pride runs deep, and you’ll find passionate alums everywhere—from Fortune 500 companies to community service projects.

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5. University of Texas at Austin (~600,000 living alumni)

The Texas Exes alumni association represents 600,000+ UT Austin graduates and is one of the most dynamic in the country. With over 150 chapters worldwide, the Longhorn network offers local meetups, career resources, scholarship support, and member-exclusive experiences. From game watch parties to global networking events, Texas Exes keep that burnt orange pride going strong.

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6. UC Berkeley (~600,000 living alumni)

Berkeley’s alumni community crosses the half-million mark with 600,000+ living graduates who are spread out across all corners of the globe. The Cal Alumni Association runs regional clubs, career resources, virtual events, and externship programs that connect students and alums alike. Especially strong in tech, policy, and academia, the Berkeley network is diverse and deeply influential.

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7. Michigan State University (~544,000 living alumni)

MSU’s alumni base includes 544,000 living graduates, and the Spartan Alumni Association helps keep them connected through events, volunteer programs, and professional development opportunities. Whether it’s through mentorship, career panels, or alumni awards, MSU’s network is active, supportive, and proud to lift each other up- on campus and beyond.

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8. Texas A&M University (~527,000 living alumni)

Texas A&M may surprise some with its 527,000+ living alumni, but the Aggie network is one of the strongest and most unified in the US. The Association of Former Students operates hundreds of local clubs, coordinates international events, and even runs the legendary “Aggie Ring” program. The Aggie Network isn’t just large—it’s built on traditions, loyalty, and a fierce commitment to helping each other succeed.

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9. Harvard University (~420,000 living alumni)

With about 420,000 living alumni, Harvard has one of the most prestigious alumni networks in the world. But it’s not just prestige—it’s power, access, and global reach. Harvard alums stay connected through 90+ regional clubs, HAA shared interest groups, and exclusive leadership events. From mentorship programs to career boosts, this network works behind the scenes in nearly every major industry.

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10. Stanford University (~240,000 living alumni)

Stanford’s alumni network may be smaller at around 240,000 living alumni, but it’s mighty—especially if you’re in tech, startups, or social impact work. The Stanford Alumni Association fuels connections through job boards, conferences, startup mixers, and interest-based communities. Being part of the Stanford fam gives you insider access to one of the most innovative, forward-thinking alumni groups on the planet.

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What Advancement Teams Can Actually Learn from These Alumni Giants

The biggest alumni associations aren’t just running reunions—they’re running strategy. The biggest alumni associations aren’t just large; they’re intentional. They segment audiences smartly, invest in community-building, and don’t shy away from tech. Here's what they actually do differently:

• Localized chapters with real power – Penn State and Texas Exes give regional groups autonomy and budgets to run events, fund scholarships, and build mini-communities.
• Tradition-driven engagement – Texas A&M’s Aggie Ring and Muster aren’t events—they’re identity. Long-term loyalty starts with shared rituals.
• Career-first support – Michigan and Ohio State lead with job boards, alumni-only postings, mentorship, and even externships for students. This is what grads actually care about.
• Digital-first experience – IU and Stanford invest in sleek alumni portals, segmented comms, and professional affinity groups. Think less newsletter blast, more curated experience.
• Student-alumni bridges – Berkeley’s externships and Texas chapters funding local student scholarships create early emotional hooks, long before alumni ever donate.
• Smart volunteer scaling – Michigan State uses plug-and-play event kits to help alumni run the show without burning out HQ.

The takeaway? Tradition + tech + trust = real alumni engagement.

If you’re part of an advancement team, take notes: these schools are great at building long-term engagement, creating moments that matter, and making alumni feel like they still belong, years after graduation.

How Platforms Like Almabase Help Scale Alumni Engagement

You don’t necessarily need 800,000 alumni to build a powerful network—you just need the right tools. That’s where platforms like Almabase come in. Almabase helps advancement teams:

• Create digital-first alumni experiences (event pages, class notes, virtual reunions)
• Segment communication based on interests, location, class year, and more.
• Drive engagement with personalized outreach and analytics that actually make sense.
• Automate everyday workflows so you can focus on building relationships, not chasing spreadsheets.

Whether you're a small college or a large public university, tools like Almabase (and integrations with RE NXT) make it easier to scale what matters: human connection.

How to Build and Strengthen Your Own Alumni Network

• Building a strong alumni network doesn’t require a massive base—it requires a thoughtful, intentional strategy. The most successful alumni teams do three things well: they segment, they empower chapters, and they leverage digital tools to make it all scale.
• Start with segmentation – Not all alumni want the same thing. Group them by geography, graduation year, profession, or even engagement level. For example, many top universities run targeted campaigns just for recent grads, first-time donors, or industry-specific groups. This helps you meet alumni where they are, not where your org is.
• Activate chapters with purpose – Give regional or interest-based chapters more than a logo. Equip them with toolkits, autonomy, and mini-budgets. Indiana University and Penn State, for example, empower hundreds of local chapters to run mentorship programs, give scholarships, and even host speaker series that feel community-led, not HQ-dictated.

The Role of Modern Platforms in Scaling Alumni Engagement

It’s not just about having a database but about how you utilize that database. Platforms like RE NXT and Almabase help advancement teams build real-time event pages, automate reminders, personalize communication, and track what’s working. They help advancement teams do more with less. They don’t just store alumni data—they help you act on it. So that instead of chasing tasks, your team can focus on what matters- building relationships at scale.

• Smart segmentation lets you target by class year, region, or interest—no more one-size-fits-all emails.
• Event tools manage invites, RSVPs, and reminders—all in one place.
• Real-time tracking shows who’s engaging and who’s slipping away.
• Self-service features let alumni update info, sign up for events, and stay connected—without you chasing them.

Conclusion

Strong alumni networks aren’t built overnight, but they’re also not just reserved for the Ivy League or massive public schools. What truly makes the difference is how intentionally institutions show up for their alumni, through relevant programs, trusted traditions, and smart use of technology.

If you’re looking to strengthen your own network, start with segmentation, make it easy for alumni to engage, use platforms that work with your team you can build a network that’s not just big but deeply connected.

Curious to see how schools are making this work in real life?

Check out these case studies: University of Texas at El Paso & Nicholls State University

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Book a personalized demo to see how we could fit into your team’s workflow!

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About the author

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Sharada is a freelance blogger and communication trainer who loves exploring the intersection of education and training. When not working, she enjoys reading and dabbling in calligraphy.

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