Deadline updates, 2023–2024: First-year application trends through Feb 1

By February 1, 2024, there were 1,285,065 first-year applicants, submitting a total of 7,327,247 applications. A 6% increase in applicants and a 7% rise in application volume compared to the prior year.

Key findings include:

• First-generation applicants grew by 4%, while continuing-generation applicants rose by 7%.
• Applicants from below-median income ZIP codes increased by 11%, and those eligible for a Common App fee waiver rose by 13%, indicating that more students with financial need are participating in the application process.
• International applicants increased by 14%, compared to a 5% growth among domestic applicants.
• Applications to public institutions increased by 11%, compared to 5% for private institutions.