Mid‑season Common App data show first‑year applicants rose 2% to about 1.43 million, with underrepresented minority applicants up 5% year‑over‑year. Black applicants and students identifying as two or more races posted the fastest gains (8% and 7%, respectively). The platform also reported a rise in students submitting standardized test scores and a decline in international applications. The findings suggest ongoing demographic change in the applicant pool after the 2023 Students for Fair Admissions decision and provide admissions offices with early signals for yield, financial‑aid planning and outreach strategies.