Chicago received 8,698 early-action applications for the class of 2016

The undergraduate College received 8,698 early-action applications this year, an increase of 25 percent over last year’s figure.
This continues a period of steady growth in the number of prospective College students of high ability who aspire to attend the University of Chicago. Early applications to UChicago are non-binding, and students are free to apply elsewhere. The deadline for early applications was Nov. 1, though the Office of College Admissions allowed a few extra days this year for students on the East Coast who may have been delayed by that region’s severe snowstorms at the end of October.
Students who choose to apply early often view UChicago as their first choice, said James G. Nondorf, Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid. Last year the College experienced similar growth in early applications, with an increase of 18.5 percent over the previous year. This year’s increase suggests that a growing number of highly accomplished students consider the College their leading option.
“This is a fresh indication of the passion that students around the world have for the distinctive academic culture at UChicago,” Nondorf said. “I am often struck by how well applicants of many backgrounds understand our traditions of open inquiry and diversity of thought. Our constant goal is to find students who would benefit from and contribute to the College’s legacy of intellectual adventure.”
http://news.uchicago.edu/article/2011/11/14/growth-early-action-applications-college-continues-long-term-trend
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