In 2007-08, 3.3 million students graduated from high school in the U.S.

Although the most highly selective colleges have become even more selective, 4-year institutions nationwide accepted an average of about 7 out of every 10 applications.

19% of Fall 2007 freshman submitted 7 or more applications.

68% of all applications for Fall 2007 admission were done online.

Early Decision application volume declined; however, Early Action applications increased.

41% of colleges reported using a wait list for Fall 2007 admissions – a substantial increase. However, a student’s likelihood of being admitted from the wait list remained at less than 1 in 3.

The top factors in the admission process continue to be (in order): grades in college preparatory courses, strength of curriculum, standardized admission test scores, and overall high school grade point average. The application essay and class rank placed fifth and sixth, followed closely by student’s demonstrated interest in attending, counselor recommendations and teacher recommendations.

Over the past five years, an increasing proportion of colleges and universities have rated a student’s demonstrated interest in attending an institution as "considerably important". The percentage increased from 7 in 2003 to 22% in 2007.

More than 1/3 (35%) of colleges reported that they had revoked an offer of admission during the Fall 2007 admission cycle. Final grades was the most common reason for these retractions, followed by falsification of application information and disciplinary issues. Disciplinary issues most likely to result in the retraction of an admission offer: violence, followed by cheating, drug-related offenses and theft.