Most applied to colleges in 2023?

Hi there. I'm a junior trying to get a sense of the lay of the land. Can someone fill me in on the colleges that were most popular among applicants in 2023? This would help me determine the competitiveness of various institutions.

Sure, I can offer some insight on this. In 2023, some of the most applied-to colleges included the University of California (UC) schools, California State University (CSU) systems, and a handful of Ivy League colleges.

1. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) had recorded the highest number of applications from freshman applicants due to its strong reputation and diverse student body. Similarly, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) was also very popular. Remember that UC schools have a broader application pool with in-state, out-of-state, and international students vying for spots.

2. California State University systems, including CSU Long Beach and San Diego State, gained substantial interest due to their strong programs, affordability, and location. However, these schools mostly draw applications from students within California.

3. On the East Coast, Ivy League schools like Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and Penn continue to be top choices due to their prestige, financial aid packages, and various course offerings.

However, remember that a high number of applicants doesn't always equate to competitiveness. Instead, consider factors like the school's acceptance rate, average SAT/ACT score, and GPA of admitted students to gauge competitiveness. Additionally, colleges often look for fit over numbers, so ensure that any college you apply to aligns with your academic and personal goals.