Harvard receives record-high applications

Harvard received a record-high number of applicants for its Class of 2019, a total of 41 more than Penn.

The Crimson reported on Thursday that Harvard received 37,305 applicants for its incoming class, an 8.8 percent increase over the prior year. Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid William R. Fitzsimmons told the Crimson that he thought Harvard's low-income outreach program along with a $125 million gift from 1989 Harvard grad Ken Griffin in support of financial aid may have lead to the record-high applications.

“I think that when Ken Griffin’s gift came, the timing was perfect and lots of things came together,” Fitzsimmons said to the Crimson. “It allowed us to once again reinforce that if you’re someone of excellence, we’re open to you.”

This report comes a little over three weeks after Penn announced a record-high 37,264 applicants for its Class of 2019. Penn extended its deadline by four days, which helped increase the number of applicants. The University saw a 3.9 percent increase in its applications.

“Admissions officers have begun the full evaluation process of the regular decision applicant pool which will take place over the next few months,” Furda said. “Penn along with the other members of the Ivy League will post decisions on March 31 at 5 p.m.”

Here's the full story from the Crimson. For the Penn application numbers, check here.

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.