Each year, the Common Application releases an end-of-season report, and it offers a comprehensive look at how the college admissions landscape is shifting. This year’s “First-year Application Trends” was recently released, and it outlines noticeable changes in application volume, as well as demographic and geographic shifts in the applicant pool.
COMMON APP 2024-25: APPLICATION TRENDS
Record Growth in Applications
This admissions cycle marked the first time total applications surpassed 10 million, but the breakdown of these numbers is telling. The total number accounts for both an increase in new applicants, which is up about 5%, and a rise in the number of applications submitted per student, which increased by 2%. The average number of applications submitted per student is now just below seven (6.80).
Growth in Historically Underrepresented Groups
This year’s applicant cycle saw significant growth among underrepresented and historically underserved groups. Latinx applicants and Black and/or African American applicants are among the fastest growing groups, with increases of 15% and 12%, respectively. First-generation students also saw a surge of about 14%, and low-income students (measured by fee-waiver eligibility and ZIP code data) grew about 10%.
Public Institutions Are Booming
While private institutions experienced 3% growth, applications to public universities surged 13%. Students are now more likely to apply to a mix of in-state and out-of-state schools, as well as public and private institutions. In addition to more applications per student, it seems there is a shift in the diversity of schools on each applicant’s list.
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Geographic Shifts
Domestic applicant growth has outpaced international applicants for the first time since 2019, increasing the possibility of fewer international students on U.S. campuses. While overall, international numbers dropped about 1%, applicants from China grew 7%. Everything really is bigger in Texas. It’s applicant volume grew an astounding 43% this year, and it is now the #1 state for applicants. More broadly, the Southwest saw the largest growth of 39%.
Testing Rebound
After years of decline during the test-optional era, students are once again submitting test scores. Score reporters grew 12% this year, while non-reporting applicants dropped slightly. This trend was consistent among all demographics.
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WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
For students and families, these trends reinforce what many already know: gaining admission to college continues to be increasingly competitive. A growing number of students are applying to more institutions than ever before, and the applicant pool is increasingly diverse. The Common Application’s report highlights a shift in applicant behavior—one that will continue to shape the landscape of higher education in the years ahead.
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO THE COMMON APPLICATION
With over 1,000 colleges accepting the Common App, the majority of students will use this platform when applying. Here are the key steps and our top tips to building your application:
1. Create an Account
The Common Application is live starting August 1st, and you can create an account on the website.
TTA Top Tip: Completing the Common App can be more complex than it seems—small missteps can lead to missed opportunities or overlooked strengths. To avoid common pitfalls and ensure your application reflects your best self, consider using our Common App Intensive Program!
2. Gather Application Materials
You will need several materials before diving in, including:
- Basic personal details (legal name, address, date of birth)
- High school transcript(s)
- SAT/ACT scores (if required)
- Parent/ guardian information (education, occupation)
- List of activities, achievements, and honors
- Personal essay (650 words) and any required supplemental essays
TTA Top Tip: Check out our College Essay Guidance Program for strategic support on your college essays and ensure they catch the eye of admissions officers!
3. Explore Colleges and Add Them to Your List
Use the “Explore Colleges” feature to research member schools. In the “My Colleges” section, add each college you’re interested in and review its particular requirements.
4. Fill Out Application Sections
You can complete the various parts of the application in any order.
5. Review, Finalize, and Submit
Finalize all sections of the application, including optional materials (if required). Ensure recommenders and your high school counselor submit required documents before the deadline. Double-check test score policies and confirm all components are submitted.
KEY COMMON APPLICATION DEADLINES (2025-26)
August 1, 2025: Common Application opens
November 1-15, 2025: Most Early Decision 1 and Early Action deadlines
- Double-check all application deadlines for each institution!
January 1-15, 2026: Most Early Decision 2 and Regular Decision deadlines
- Some schools may extend into late January or February, so again, double-check!
Want to increase your odds of admission? Check out our Personalized Counseling for College Admissions and be matched with an experienced counselor today!
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Kylie’s background includes leading student recruitment and enrollment initiatives, serving as a Founding Member of the Higher Education Advisory Council at Cambridge University Press & Assessment English, and mentoring emerging leaders through coaching.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Liberal Arts and a Leadership Development Certificate from Johns Hopkins, and brings a passion for Positive Psychology and helping individuals navigate meaningful life transitions with confidence and clarity.
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