More teenagers than ever are going on to higher education, more candidates are seeking admission to top-ranked institutions, and more possess the qualifications needed to compete for a seat. At those institutions, it becomes more of a rejection program than an admissions program. There are so many applicants, the odds are against even a super-qualified individual making the cut. It's only going to get tougher. With more parents and students viewing college as a necessity, the quest has intensified.
Some educators point to the preoccupation with college rankings and ratings.
Others note a thriving economy, stepped-up marketing and recruitment efforts, and a growing recognition that elite schools are open to all segments of society. Harvard University's 18,693 applicants for this year's freshman class was the largest in its history. Likewise for Brown, Georgetown, and Columbia. Princeton topped out at 14,875 applicants a year earlier. Consider the change in recent years.