College & Workforce Readiness
Post-2023 Supreme Court decision, no major shifts in student-application behaviors observed by Common Application. Analysis of 6 million applicants over five years shows trends in racial/ethnic self-identification, diversity, and application to selective institutions consistent with past years. Exceptions include increased applications from first-generation students during COVID-19 and more underrepresented minority applicants discussing racial/ethnic identities in essays. Future research needed on admission patterns post-Supreme Court decision, test-optional policies, and new FAFSA rollout.