More students have applied for school this fall at many Wisconsin universities.
In fact, Marquette University in Milwaukee has decided to end the admissions process early -- topping 7,000 freshman applicants for the first time.
At UW Madison, admissions for this fall climbed three percent. Carthage College in Kenosha reports a 20 percent increase in applications compared to last year.
Demographically, the number of college-age students has increased nationally. The unstable economy also has made college more attractive.