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<p>Chicago for ages had a relatively high admit rate (compared to the Ivies), but also high average stats. It was never the kind of place that would attract large numbers of under-qualified applicants interested in it only for social prestige, for a good time, or due to parental pressure. It was, as Pizzagirl describes, “self-selecting”. </p>
<p>In recent years, a rising demographic tide has lifted many boats (application numbers), but Chicago’s admit rates have dropped even faster than many peer schools’. The “overflow from the Ivies” theory does not explain this difference. The more likely explanation, I think, has to do with marketing changes. A popular Dean of Admissions who had introduced Chicago’s quirky application essays resigned in 2009 after a 20 year tenure. Chicago began using the Common Application in recent years, and has increased its volume of direct mail marketing. Since the mid-90’s, Common Core requirements have been relaxed. Money has been invested in infrastructure affecting quality of life (new dorms, athletic facilities). Enrollments have been shifted toward more emphasis on the College relative to the graduate divisions.</p>
<p>The Internet may be a factor, too. An abundance of objective information online now makes it easier for potential applicants to learn about Chicago’s objective strengths (including class sizes, faculty achievements, facilities, and student outcomes that rival the Ivies).</p>