University of Michigan reports record number of applicants; minority applications up as well

The projected size of the entering class is approximately 6,350, an increase of about 300 over last year. If this projection proves accurate, 2010 will see the largest incoming class in the history of the university. Class size varies each year and is the result of normal fluctuations in the applicant population and other variables such as the economy. These are preliminary numbers; final enrollment figures will be available in October, the university said. Applications from underrepresented minority students increased by 836 to a total of 3,715. Of those who applied, 1,636 were offered admission, a rise of 224 over the previous year. The number of underrepresented minority students who have paid the enrollment deposit grew to 724, an increase of 143 as compared to last year. At U-M, the term "underrepresented minority" is interpreted to include African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans. "Diversity is an inherent element of the University of Michigan community," Lester P. Monts, senior vice provost for academic affairs, said in the release. "And we have found that the university's commitment to diversity motivates many of the most highly qualified students to choose Michigan." Overall, of the 15,979 freshman applicants offered admission, 6,900 have paid enrollment deposits. This 43.2 percent yield rate (number of students who pay deposits as a percentage of those who are offered admission) is the same as the previous year. Because some students ultimately choose not to attend, enrollment deposits do not directly correspond to the number of students who enroll in the fall.

"By every measure, the qualifications of our applicant pool are on a steady upward trajectory," Ted Spencer, associate vice provost and executive director of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, said in the release. "The substantial increase in applications affords every opportunity to assemble an incoming class that will be remarkable both for their academic excellence and achievement, as well as their contributions to the University community during their years on campus."