End-of-season report, 2023–2024: First-year application trends

The 2023–24 application season showed continued growth and diversification among first-year applicants using the Common App.

Key findings include:

• First-generation applicants increased by 15%, compared to a 1% growth rate among continuing-generation students.
• Low-income indicators were up. Applicants from below median income ZIP codes rose 9%. The number of students eligible for a Common App fee waiver increased by 10%. More than three times the 3% growth rate of their peers without fee waivers.
• International applicants increased by 4%, compared to a 5% growth among domestic students.

Overall, the 2024 data highlight steady growth in Common App applications, with robust increases among first-generation and low-income students. These shifts indicate progress toward broader access and equity in the college application process.