Applications to UVM, state colleges on the rise
Toolbox
Associated Press - Published: January 12, 2009
BURLINGTON — Despite the economic downturn, applications to the University of Vermont and the Vermont State Colleges are up over last year.
As of Jan. 2, applications to UVM had risen 12 percent over last year's record number, said Chris Lucier, vice president for enrollment management.
The number of applications from Vermonters had increased 18 percent, which was expected with the poor economy, he said.
At Vermont State Colleges, applications have risen 18 percent at Vermont Technical College, 12 percent at Castleton State College and 11 percent at Johnson State College, said Karrin Wilks, senior vice president.
"Deposits are up at Lyndon with applications about the same. Community College of Vermont is on a different schedule, taking applications right up to the beginning of the semester. Its spring 2009 registration is up 18 percent over last year at this time," she said.
Private institutions, such as Champlain, Middlebury, St. Michael's colleges, had mixed results. Nationally, officials expect to see a decline in applications to private colleges, which tend to cost more than public institutions for in-state students.
"We're all speculating that privates will see a decline while publics will gain, but it's way too early to know," said Barmak Nassirian, spokesman for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.
While early decision applications were up at St. Michael's, regular applications were coming in at a rate comparable to last year, said Jacki Murphy, director of admissions.
"Last year was a record year for us," she said. "Our deadline is Feb. 1, so time will tell. Given the great uncertainty in so many areas, I believe we will be doing well to hit close to last year's numbers."
At Champlain, applications were up 15 percent, said Mary Kay Kennedy, vice president for enrollment and student life.
Middlebury, however, has seen a decline of about 10 percent from last year, said Bob Clagett, dean of admissions, while early decision applications have increased. The school had expected about 700-800 fewer applicants after reinstating an application fee, he said.
"Many colleges across the country are experiencing a drop in applicants and it might be in part because students are narrowing their choices earlier in the application process in order to save on application fees in this difficult economy," he said.
16