<p>This is not based on any scientific evidence, but ... I think that it is becoming so much more important to attend college & the applications are rising because of that fact. The poor kids, rural kids, kids of color, etc. who not so long ago figured they could never afford college are finding out that there are colleges who will help them afford a degree. As more of the general population decides to go to college, a lot of top students believe they need to go to a school other than their state U in order to differentiate themselves from the masses. These are simplistic observations, and by no means are they all inclusive. They are just some ideas about why apps are increasing.</p>
<p>25 years ago I was a production supervisor in a Big 3 manufacturing plant. Only one of my employees had a college degree, and several had not gone to school past 8th grade. Today, not only do these good jobs not exist as options for young people ... but even a similar job would require some college in order to compete for the job. A greater percentage of youth are attending college & as that happens, a greater percentage hope to distinguish themselves in the job market with a "known" degree. Just my take on things.</p>