U.Va. applications hit record high

The University of Virginia has received a record 21,511 applications for 3,170 places for the fall semester, an increase in applications of at least 16 percent from last year.

Preliminary numbers released yesterday show a greater diversity in the applicant pool for first-year undergraduate students: 22 percent more African-American students, 56 percent more Hispanic students, 50 percent more international students and 100 percent more Native American students.

The university said the diversity is a fitting tribute to its longtime dean of admission, John A. "Jack" Blackburn, who died Tuesday of cancer.

The increased numbers were also attributed to U.Va.'s move last fall to a common application, an electronic form that students can send to multiple schools. U.Va. applicants also must complete a supplemental application and essays. -- Karin Kapsidelis