Campus prepares for largest-ever freshman class

From athletics to academics, it has been a record-breaking year for Baylor University, and more students than ever want to share in that success. So much so that Baylor is preparing to welcome its largest class in the University’s 169-year history.

More students than at any other time in Baylor’s history have placed deposits to secure their place in the incoming class, and Baylor is considering a variety of changes to its admissions process for next year to accommodate increased demand.

As of mid-June, year-over-year deposits, an indicator of which students will enroll, has surged nearly 13 percent. In addition, minority student deposits have increased 20 percent, while international student deposits are up almost 5 percent, underscoring the strong and growing diversity of Baylor’s campus. Out-of-state net deposits have topped the 30 percent mark for the first time.

Students are also visiting campus in greater numbers. The University hosted more than 52,000 prospective students and their family members in 2013, a significant jump from the 35,000 that toured the campus in 2010.

Completed student applications rose 19 percent from 2013, the highest percentage increase in Baylor’s history, while legacy applications from the children of Baylor alumni have increased nearly 14 percent from last year.

Incoming freshmen also have registered for Baylor Line Camp in record numbers. Nearly 2,000 members of the freshman class have signed up to attend Line Camp, the University’s extended orientation experience that helps incoming freshmen build friendships and develop a deep connection to the University’s beloved traditions.