WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – For the sixth year in a row, Purdue University has received a record number of applications for the fall semester.
As of Monday (Feb. 15), 47,475 prospective first-year students have submitted applications, a 7.2 percent increase over last year’s all-time record, according to the Office of Admissions. Feb. 1 was the priority deadline for applications. However, applications will be accepted for most programs well into the summer with limited space available. Last year, approximately 1,000 additional applications were received after the priority deadline.
The university saw a 6.2 percent increase in applicants from Indiana, as well as an increase in out-of-state applicants. International student applicants remained similar to previous years.
Purdue President Mitch Daniels attributed the increase in applications to Purdue’s maintaining tuition rates and costs while consistently being on the forefront of world-renowned research, discovery and teaching through the university’s Purdue Moves initiative.
“Word is out that Purdue is a place that values both a rigorous, meaningful education and student affordability,” Daniels said. “We stand in contrast to the prevailing attitude in higher ed, and applicants are noticing.”
Purdue officials also attributed the increase to the work of the Purdue recruiting staff, International Student Services and efforts across all colleges.
“The quality and number of students who are applying is evidence of Purdue’s commitment to ‘higher education at the highest proven value,'” said Pam Horne, vice provost for enrollment management.
Other contributing factors include Purdue’s use of the popular Common Application, continued focus on recruiting Indiana students, strong relationships with high school counselors, and communicating with students and parents about what it takes to be successful at Purdue.
Writer: Megan Huckaby, 765-496-1325, mhuckaby@purdue.
Sources: Mitch Daniels, [email protected]
Pam Horne, 765-494-7014, pamhorne@purdue.
Mitch Warren, director of admissions, 765-494-1776, mitchw@purdue.
