College applications surge in 2026, but not everyone benefits equally
Applications for college admission in fall 2026 have climbed once again. The total number of applicants rose by 4% compared to the same period last year, marking the latest increase in a steady upward trend seen since 2021-22.
The overall volume of applications also grew by 7%, continuing a pattern of rising interest in higher education. Yet not all groups saw the same level of growth, with some facing declines while others surged ahead.
The Southwestern region led the way with a 10% jump in applicants—nearly double the rate of the next fastest-growing area. This regional growth stood out, though no single university in Southwest Germany was highlighted for exceptional application increases. Instead, broader rankings like the CHE 2025/2026 and QS/THE 2026 focused on institutions such as Universität Passau, Mannheim, Heidelberg, and Tübingen, without specifying growth metrics.
First-generation applicants drove much of the increase, rising by 9% over the previous year. In contrast, continuing-generation students saw only a 1% bump. Similarly, students from rural areas applied at roughly twice the rate of those from cities. Test score submissions also rose sharply, with an 11% increase in applicants including standardised test results. Meanwhile, those eligible for Common App fee waivers grew by 8%, compared to just 1% for applicants not requesting financial support. Underrepresented minority applicants saw a 7% rise, matching the overall application volume growth. However, international applicants fell by 7%, reversing last year’s modest 1% increase. This decline contrasts with the broader upward trend in domestic applications.
The latest figures confirm a continued rise in college applications, with certain groups expanding far more than others. First-generation, rural, and fee-waiver-eligible students contributed most to the growth, while international interest waned. The Southwestern region’s strong performance also highlights shifting patterns in where students are applying.
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