Record Numbers Apply to 'Cliffe

The number of applications for admission to Radcliffe has jumped to an all-time high this year, reversing a two-year trend toward fewer applicants.

The Radcliffe admissions committee received 2,434 applications for the 300 places in the class of '71, an increase of 341 applicants over last year.

But there was no rise in "unrealistic applications" from girls who have little chance of being accepted, Patricia. O'Connor, associate director of Admissions, said yesterday.

She said the increase in total number of applications was unexpected. "On the basis of population statistics it shouldn't have happened," she added.

Increasing enthusiasm for coeducational schools may be a partial explanation, Radcliffe Dean of Admissions Margaret W. Stimpson said yesterday.

She suggested that a less important factor may be the new Radcliffe library "which makes prospective students feel this is an exciting place."

Applications came from more secondary schools than ever before. Students in 1,382 high schools, located in every state except South Dakota, applied.

The distribution of students who apply from public and private schools remained about the same as in past years: 70 per cent from public schools, 30 per cent from private schools.

Earlier Decisions

This year, for the first time, Radcliffe and many other women's colleges will mail letters of acceptance on April 15, the date when the Ivy League men's schools notify their applicants. In the past, Radcliffe has mailed its acceptances a week later than Harvard.

Requests for financial aid from applicants are up 25 per cent over last year, but more scholarship money will be available, Radcliffe Director of Financial Aid Patricia J. McIntire said yesterday.

One thousand applicants to the class of '71 have requested scholarships. Out of these, about 100 will be admitted to Radcliffe, 80 of whom will receive scholarships, Miss McIntire said.

The maximum scholarship will be $3,700, a rise of $300 from last year. Part of the increase will cover the $240 rise in Radcliffe tuition this year.