Is there a most applied-to college?

This might seem a bit random, but out of curiosity, do we know if there's a single college that gets the maximum applications every year? I wonder if there's a certain school that's seriously popular among students, and if so, what makes it such a favorite?

There sure is! The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) holds the title as the most applied-to college in the United States. This is likely due to the university's strong academic programs, its location in a desirable city, and the reputation of the University of California system.

For instance, for the fall of 2021, UCLA received a total of over 146,000 applications from prospective freshman students. This high volume of applications speaks to its appeal—UCLA boasts strong programs in fields ranging from the performing arts to STEM, as well as vibrant extracurricular and athletic communities.

Of course, don't let the popularity of certain colleges dictate your choices. You should always consider your personal academic and career goals, as well as what kind of environment you can see yourself thriving in. A great fit isn't just about prestige or popularity, but how well the school aligns with your interests and aspirations. Thus, it's more important to identify which colleges are the "most applied-to" by you—those that best cater to your unique needs and preferences.