Melvin

A tidal wave of high school seniors logged on to Cornell University's website at 5 p.m. March 29, eager to check selection for the Class of 2016.

But many were disappointed. Cornell is "considerably" more selective this year, with more students vying for a limited number of spots, according to Lee H. Melvin, Cornell's associate vice provost for enrollment. Only 16.2 percent of applicants were selected for admission in 2012, compared with 18 percent in 2011.

"We're fortunate that so many outstanding students want to receive their education here," Melvin said. "Of course, that's through a lot of hard work having gone into creating Cornell's superb academic quality, attracting the very best faculty and maintaining value for students and their families."

The university received 37,812 applications for 2012, a 4 percent increase over last year. Of the 6,123 admitted students, 52 percent are women, 24 percent are students of color, and 1,180 were admitted early decision. They hail from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands, as well as 68 countries. The university waitlisted 3,120 students, compared with 2,988 last year.

The selected students have until May 1 to decide whether to accept. To encourage them to do so, alumni around the country will be hosting events and talking with students to tell them more about the university and how they can benefit from being a Cornellian. Admitted students will visit Ithaca through the month of April and during Cornell Days, when they can tour the campus, attend classes, stay in the residence halls, and talk with faculty members and current students about what Cornell has to offer.

For more information, visit the admissions website.