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Applications Again On The Rise At Area Colleges

Many colleges and universities in the area are getting a record number of student applications this year.

Northeastern University set another record this year with 44,189 applications for approximately 2,800 spots. Boston University also had a record with a 5 percent overall increase — and a 19 percent jump in international applications.

Lasell College saw a 40 percent increase, which spokeswoman Michelle Gaseau says the school attributes to an increase in understanding that private schools provide good value.

"I think the cost differential between publics and privates is coming closer and closer together," she said. "If a private institution really fits what the student is looking for, then finances are as much as a decision-making factor."

Applications at three University of Massachusetts schools were also up — to one campus by 20 percent.

At Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the number of applications has gone up every year for the past 10 years, and hit a new high again this year.

WPI Senior Vice President Kristen Tichenor attributes the rise to the economy, and to more families looking at what jobs will be available to students when they graduate.

"Families I believe are making decisions in the college search procress driven by outcomes and the opportunity for gainful employment at the end of a very costly four-year investment," Tichenor said.

This program aired on February 16, 2012. The audio for this program is not available.

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