End-of-season report, 2024–2025: First-year application trends

The 2024–2025 Common App season marked a notable uptick in both applicant numbers and application volume. A total of 1,498,199 distinct first-year applicants submitted over 10 million applications, reflecting an 8% increase from the previous year. Applicants applied to an average of 6.80 institutions, up from 6.64 in the 2023–24 academic year.

Key findings include:

  • First-generation applicants grew by 14%, while continuing-generation applicants saw a modest 1% increase.

  • Students reporting eligibility for a Common App fee waiver grew by 10%, outpacing the 3% growth among non-eligible students.

  • Applications to public member institutions grew by 13%, surpassing the 3% growth seen in private institutions.

  • International applicant growth stagnated at 1%, while domestic applicants increased by 6%.

These trends underscore a continued diversification of the applicant pool, with notable increases in applications from underrepresented and first-generation students, as well as a shift toward public institutions.

Download the full report here.

Roman Fernando

Hello, my name is Roman and I am honored you have taken a moment to get to know me.

With over 30 years of experience in education, I have dedicated my career to supporting students, parents, and schools in reaching their fullest potential. My journey began in the classroom as a math and science teacher, where I discovered my passion for inspiring curiosity and critical thinking. Over the years, I have worn many hats in education—each one deepening my understanding of how to best serve students and families.

As a school principal, I led with a student-first mindset, overseeing academic programs, faculty development, and school-wide initiatives. I worked closely with families by directing IEPs, ensuring that students with unique learning needs received the support and resources they deserved. Recognizing the power of innovation, I also implemented technology in the classroom to enhance engagement and improve student outcomes.

Beyond administration, I have been an active contributor to academic enrichment, chairing Academic Decathlon programs for more than a decade, guiding students to discover their strengths and achieve excellence. I have supported schools through grant applications, advised students in their course selection, and mentored new educators as a Master Teacher. My work as a private tutor and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) for children with Autism has given me valuable insight into individualized learning approaches and the importance of patience and compassion in education.

I have served as the Executive Director of a homeschooling academy, where I work hand in hand with families to design personalized educational pathways. I also contribute to the broader educational community as a council member for WCEA/WASC accreditation, helping ensure schools meet high standards of quality and data driven accountability.

At the heart of my work is the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and that education should be a collaborative journey between teachers, families, and communities. My mission is to empower students with the skills, confidence, and character they need to succeed in school—and in life.

https://www.steppingstonesadvisors.com/
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