Middlebury's class of 2010 selected from an all-time high of 6,200 applicants

MIDDLEBURY, Vt. ? This year, an unprecedented 6,200 students applied for about 560 places in Middlebury College’s class of 2010.

“Middlebury has seen a record number of applications this year - up by more than 18 percent over last year’s pool,” says Middlebury College Dean of Admissions Robert Clagett. “We were very pleased with this significant increase and believe it may be a reflection that our commitment to programs such as environmental studies, international studies and foreign languages is resonating deeply with students throughout the world right now, including international and low-income students.”

Of those who applied, 24 percent were admitted when acceptance letters were mailed on March 31. The admitted students represent a range of talent and diversity:

• 335 students of color, including 154 Asian Americans; 110 Hispanic Americans, a 10 percent increase over last year; 60 African Americans, a 20 percent increase; and 11 Native Americans
• 175 international students from 63 countries
• 197 students from low-income families and/or families in which parents are non-college graduates, a 42 percent increase over last year
• More than 75 percent from outside of New England

Based on a need-blind admissions process, Middlebury’s decisions are made regardless of an applicant’s financial capacity. The college’s established financial aid program meets the needs of all admitted students.