University of New Haven’s Spike in Applications Among Highest in Country

The University’s 251.4 percent increase in applications over the last decade ranks number 24 in the United States – out of more than 1,500 post secondary schools.

October 23, 2017

Over the last decade, the number of applications to the University of New Haven has increased 251.4 percent, ranking the University 24th in the country for the largest percent rise in applications over that period.

The research was conducted by 24/7 Wall St., which reviewed 10-year changes in the number of applications of more than 1,500 postsecondary schools to identify the 100 colleges where applications rose the most.

"This is a tremendous testament to the University’s students-first philosophy. More and more highly qualified students are learning about our interdisciplinary programs and the many benefits of being part of our community. The success of our alumni, in turn, further endorses the innovative learning opportunities we create for our students and clearly illustrates the transformational impact of a University of New Haven education." President Steven H. Kaplan

Earlier this year, for the second year in a row, the University was featured by The Princeton Review in its annual guidebook of the best colleges and universities in the country. U.S. News & World Report also included the University among its "best value schools" in its 2018 rankings.

This fall, the University welcomed its largest incoming class in its nearly 100-year history.

Among those students is Nicole Stelmack ’21, a criminal justice major who started and ended her college search in West Haven.

"The University of New Haven was the first college I ever toured," she said. "When I first stepped foot on campus, I knew right away that this was my home, and this is where I wanted to be. Everyone I met was so nice and encouraging. I ended up touring six more colleges but, for me, nothing compared to the University of New Haven."

This was a sentiment echoed by accounting major John Bobish ’20. "The first time I saw the University of New Haven, I knew that I found what I was looking for."

He most appreciated the fact that he could start taking classes in his major from day one. "At other schools, you have start off with general education classes first," he said. "Here you dive right into your major in your first year which made it a no brainer to pick the University of New Haven.

"I was always told college is what you make of it, and I can say now that is 100 percent true," he continued. "The University of New Haven allows you to really be yourself while getting involved on campus. I have been able to learn beyond the classroom by working with others in a professional setting, and we have endless possibilities in combining majors and minors to show employers we are well-rounded individuals."