The University of Chicago has recorded a substantial increase in applications to the College this year, forming the largest and most diverse undergraduate applicant pool in the school's history while maintaining the highest academic standards.
The University received 19,306 applications for the class entering in the fall of 2010, a 42 percent increase from last year's total of 13,564. There were increases in applications from minority students, as well as increases from all income levels, from every geographic region of the U.S. and from outside the country.
Leaders at the University said the increases reflect a larger number of talented students becoming familiar with the distinctive opportunities available at UChicago.
"Our students and faculty place great value on intellectual curiosity, diversity of thought and openness to the world," said John W. Boyer, Dean of the College and the Martin A. Ryerson Distinguished Service Professor in History. "Attracting more students who share our values enriches our academic culture of constantly testing ideas and arguments. At Chicago we are fortunate to have students at all levels who share our devotion to the core academic enterprise of the University."
This year's increase continues a trend that has built for two decades and accelerated in recent years, including a doubling of College applicants since 2006. University leaders said the growth stems, in part, from a broadening of academic programs and enhanced student life opportunities. For example, the Chicago Studies program has created new avenues for intellectual engagement with the city, the College has significantly expanded support for student research projects supervised by faculty and it also has created many new study-abroad options, including the five-year-old Center in Paris and a new initiative in China.
Additional student life initiatives have included the recent construction of new residence halls and athletics facilities, the growth of cultural options in the Hyde Park neighborhood and a renewed emphasis on the arts as an integral part of campus life. The Odyssey Scholarships program also has helped more students benefit from a UChicago education by reducing loans and supplying grants for students who qualify.
Enthusiasm among prospective students continues to grow, as shown by this year's rise in early-action applications, which increased by 32 percent over the previous record in 2007. Because early applicants tend to view the University as a first choice, the increase suggests a growing group of students who are passionate about the institution, said James G. Nondorf, Vice President and Dean of College Admissions and Financial Aid.
"By every measure, this is a highly accomplished and diverse group of young scholars," Nondorf said.
Nondorf said the school's adoption of the Common Application in 2008 likely contributed to the increase in applications.
"What's most encouraging is that so many talented students and their families are learning about this University's distinctive strengths," Nondorf said.
