A record 11,143 students applied for early action to the College at the University of Chicago this fall, a 6.7 percent increase over last year and nearly quadruple the number that applied a decade ago.

“The College’s reputation for rigorous academic programs and robust student life makes Chicago increasingly attractive to top high school students,” said John W. Boyer, dean of the College.

Applications came in from every state and all around the world, with students from Illinois as the largest cohort—a reflection of the success of UChicago Promise, a University initiative to assist students from the city of Chicago in preparing for college. California and New York followed closely behind.

International students also applied in greater numbers this year. Applications came from a record 79 countries, led by China, India, Canada, and Singapore.

The cultural diversity of the applicant pool also expanded, with significant increases in the number of African American and Latino applicants over last year.

“Attracting a diverse group of top students is our priority, with the goal of developing and supporting a student body that will embrace the educational opportunities at the University of Chicago and enrich the entire University community,” said James G. Nondorf, vice president and dean of College Admissions and Financial Aid.

UChicago has seen a steady increase in both early and regular applications over the last decade, a trend at many peer institutions as well.

This year's deadline for early action was Nov. 8, a week later than usual due to technical problems with the Common Application. Applicants will receive a response by mid-December. Students who apply to UChicago’s non-binding Early Action program are free to apply elsewhere. The regular application deadline is Jan. 1, and those students will be notified by late March 2014.