A new report from Common App tracking first-year application trends through November 1, 2024,
reveals significant progress in efforts to expand postsecondary access to underserved and underrepresented students. These findings align with the mission of the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) to eliminate barriers to postsecondary education
for students from low-income, first-generation, and minority backgrounds. With data showing promising growth in applications among these key demographics, NCAN members can draw important insights to better support students on their journey to higher
education.
Key Trends in College Applications
Common App’s data, derived from 863 returning member institutions, highlights several noteworthy trends for the 2024 admissions cycle:
A growing applicant pool: The number of distinct first-year applicants reached 904,860 as of November 1, representing a 6% year-over-year increase. These applicants submitted a total of 4,017,250 applications -a
10% increase compared to the same time in 2023. This growth underscores heightened interest in higher education and possibly the effectiveness of outreach efforts post-pandemic.
Increase in underrepresented minority (URM) applicants: Applications from URM students rose by 16%. Latino/a applicants saw a remarkable 17% increase, while Black applicants grew by 15%, and American Indian or Alaska Native students
by 6%. These statistics signal the positive impact of initiatives aimed at reducing racial and ethnic disparities in college access.
Surge in first-generation applicants: The number of first-generation applicants rose by an impressive 19%. This outpaced the 2% growth seen among continuing-generation applicants, reflecting heightened engagement and outreach to students
whose parents did not attend college.
Progress among low-income applicants: Applications from students eligible for Common App fee waivers - an indicator of low-income status - grew by 13%, significantly higher than the 4% growth in applications from those not eligible.
Additionally, applicants from ZIP codes with below-median income levels grew by 11%, compared to a 5% increase in applications from higher-income ZIP codes. These figures highlight a narrowing of income-based disparities in college access.
Geographic trends: Domestic applicants increased by 7%, outpacing the 5% growth seen among international applicants.
Public vs. private institutions: Applications to public institutions grew by 12%, compared to an 8% rise for private institutions. This trend suggests increasing interest in public colleges and universities, which often provide more
accessible pathways to higher education for students from underserved and/or low-income backgrounds.
Context and Implications for Underserved Students
The report’s findings are particularly significant given the national focus on increasing equity in postsecondary education. Historically, students from URM, low-income, and first-generation backgrounds have faced systemic barriers to accessing college.
The substantial growth in applications from these groups may indicate progress towards the goal of expanding opportunities for students traditionally left out of higher education pipelines.
Key factors contributing to these trends may include:
Streamlined application processes: Common App’s initiatives to simplify the application process, including fee waivers and robust integration with financial aid tools, have reduced common barriers for underserved students.
Targeted outreach and support: Advocacy and support programs at both the community and institutional levels are clearly making an impact. Examples include implementing tailored college readiness programs that focus on building the
skills and confidence of students from first-generation and low-income backgrounds.
Belief in the value of higher education: Despite challenges such as rising costs, many students and families recognize the long-term benefits of earning a degree, particularly as labor markets demand increasingly higher levels of
education and skill.
Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
While the data reflects progress, there is still much work to be done to ensure these applicants successfully navigate the admissions process, enroll, and complete their degrees. Applying to college is only the first step. Underserved students often face
challenges during enrollment and beyond, including securing financial aid, navigating campus resources, and balancing academic and personal responsibilities.
NCAN members are uniquely positioned to address these challenges by:
Providing holistic support: Programs that combine application assistance with guidance on financial aid, scholarship applications, and post-enrollment success can ensure students don’t fall through the cracks.
Advocating for policy changes: Continued advocacy for equitable funding and support for institutions serving large numbers of low-income and first-generation students is crucial.
Leveraging data: This report provides a roadmap for refining outreach efforts. Understanding where the gaps remain - whether geographically, demographically, or socioeconomically - can help members focus their resources more effectively.
Fostering collaboration: Partnerships between schools, community organizations, and higher education institutions can amplify efforts to create a smoother transition from high school to college for all students.
Looking Ahead
The growth in applications from underserved students is an encouraging sign of progress toward greater equity in postsecondary education. However, the work is far from over. NCAN and its members must continue to address the systemic challenges that impact
underserved students at every stage of their educational journey.
This report underscores the importance of NCAN’s mission and the impact its members can have on shaping a more inclusive higher education landscape. Together, through research-based strategies, advocacy, and community engagement, we can build a future
where every student has the opportunity to thrive in college and beyond.
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