Florida State University is more popular than ever among prospective first-time college students as a record number of applications were received for admission to the 2017 summer and fall semesters.

This year’s total application number of 42,325 announced on Thursday, March 16 — FSU’s second and final decision day — is a 16 percent jump over last year’s total of 36,429.

“The upward trend of applicants for admission to Florida State University reflects that more and more people in Florida, and across the country, know that FSU represents academic excellence,” said President John Thrasher. “We intend to stay on this path as we strive for higher national prominence. We are thrilled to welcome such a talented freshman class.”

Admission notices were released on December 8 and March 16. Together, the cohort admitted represents the academically strongest in university history and boasts an average GPA of 4.1 and an average ACT score of 29.

FSU Director of Admissions Hege Ferguson said the record number of applicants demonstrates the strength of Florida State’s reputation as a high-quality institution that prepares students for success.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the class of 2021 to the Florida State family,” Ferguson said. “They are shaping up as an exceptional class — our brightest ever based on their academic profile.”

FSU continues to attract more and more students into the STEM disciplines. The top five majors selected by this year’s admitted freshman class are: biological sciences, pre-health professions, business, engineering and psychology. The pre-health professions major was established last year by the College of Medicine in partnership with six other colleges for students who intend to apply to medical school, dental school, physician assistant programs and a number of other healthcare professions from hospital management to medical data analyst.

Students with admission notices have until May 1 to confirm whether they will enroll. FSU expects to enroll 6,400 freshmen in its 2021 class.