Application trends for the Classes of 2028 and 2029 among top-ranked universities reveal diverse shifts in interest and demand. Dartmouth College (No. 15) saw a noticeable drop in applications, from 31,657 for the Class of 2028 to 28,230 for the Class of 2029. In contrast, Rice University (No. 18) experienced a significant surge in interest, with applications rising from 32,473 to 36,777. Vanderbilt University (also No. 18) saw a slight decline, receiving 48,681 applications for the Class of 2029 compared to 50,084 the year before. Meanwhile, the University of Notre Dame (tied at No. 18) experienced a substantial increase in applications, from 29,934 for the Class of 2028 to 35,401 for 2029. These figures reflect shifting applicant behavior and institutional appeal across peer institutions.