Radford University sets application records

Freshmen Applications Jump 78.5%

Radford University announced today that it has experienced its highest number of new freshmen and transfer student applications for the prospective new class entering in fall 2017.

As of Feb. 10th, 13,291 new freshmen applications have been received, representing a 78.5 percent increase compared to last year's total applications (7,447) and 62.2 percent more than the previous record of 8,192 total applications for the fall 2012 entering freshmen class.

The academic profile, as measured by high school GPA, of the new freshmen applicants to-date increased by 1.9 percent compared to the average GPA of total applicants for last fall's new freshmen class.

The University's Office of Enrollment Management attributes the significant application increases to a combination of factors, including additional outreach to prospective students and their families, increased communications about the many diverse and exciting opportunities that Radford University offers students, and earlier financial aid notifications for prospective students.

"We're excited to engage with even more prospective students and share the Radford story with them," said Kitty McCarthy, vice president for Enrollment Management. "The breadth and depth of Radford University's academic programs, combined with the opportunity to work with outstanding faculty in a student-centered environment, is attractive to many students and families. More prospective students are hearing about Radford University and are applying to be a part of the energy we experience on campus."

Transfer Applications Outpacing Previous Year

Radford University also is experiencing a 28 percent increase in transfer student applications to-date for the fall 2017 entering class, as compared to the number of fall 2016 class received at the same point in time, with a total of 936 applicants as of Feb. 10th. The transfer application process is ongoing and continues through the summer.

"Radford University has an excellent history in recruiting transfer students and providing a supportive environment where they can be successful," McCarthy said. "We are an excellent opportunity for transfer students to continue that next stage of their academic careers."

Affordability

In addition to the student-centeredness and sense of community that Radford University offers prospective students, Radford is also known for providing a quality, affordable education for its students. Of the 15 public four-year institutions in Virginia, Radford University provides the second lowest total cost of education (tuition, fees and room and board) and is 14 percent below the state average in total cost for in-state undergraduate students.

"We also hear from students that size, affordability and location are important considerations in the college search process," McCarthy explained. "Radford delivers on all of these."

Recognition and Accolades

Radford University continues to be recognized for the strength of its academic programs, success of its sustainability efforts and dedication to excellence. Examples include:

"Best Colleges and Universities in the Southeast"
The Princeton Review, 2004-2017

"Best Regional Universities" in the South
U.S. News & World Report, 2013-2017

"Top Public Schools" – South - #16
U.S. News & World Report, 2017

"College of Distinction"
Colleges of Distinction, 2016 and 2017

"Best Bang for the Buck" Universities
Washington Monthly Magazine, 2013-2016

"Best Colleges for Veterans - South"
U.S. News & World Report, 2016 and 2017

"Best for Vets"
Military Times, 2015

"Best Dorms" Ranked #3 in Virginia and among the top 100 nationwide
Niche Rankings, 2015

"Top Interior Design Schools in the South"
DesignIntelligence, 2014

"Best Business Schools"
The Princeton Review, 2012-2017

"Top Green Colleges in the Nation"
The Princeton Review, 2010-2016

"President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll"
– Corporation for National and Community Service, 2009, 2013-2015

Radford University is a comprehensive public university of 9,400 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 204-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom.

The university offers 67 degree programs in 38 disciplines and three certificates at the undergraduate level; 22 master's programs in 17 disciplines and three doctoral programs at the graduate level; 13 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master's certificate.

With over 270 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Athletic Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men's and women's varsity athletics.

To learn more about Radford University, visit www.radford.edu.

To apply as an undergraduate or graduate student, visit www.radford.edu/admissions.

Feb 16, 2017
Joe Carpenter
(540) 831-7270
ljcarpenter@radford.edu