Staci DumoskiThe Class of 2027 begins their college journey this week with students arriving at Chapman University from 46 states and 59 countries around the globe.
Chapman received a total of 16,146 applications for the first-year cohort and an additional 1,520 transfer applications, making this year the university’s largest-ever application pool – a testament to Chapman’s growing reputation as a nationally ranked institution for higher learning.
Latinx, First-Generation College Students on the Rise
Among incoming first-year students, 19% identify as Hispanic or Latino – up significantly from 17% for last year’s class – bolstering Chapman’s status as an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). Overall, 48% of incoming first-year students identify as people of color.
In addition, almost 21% of the incoming class are first-generation college students, a number that reflects Chapman’s commitment to access and opportunity.
“The best recruitment tool is always a great experience, and the strength of our incoming class shows that word is getting out about our financial support, academic opportunities and close-knit campus community,” said Marcela Mejia-Martinez, Assistant Vice President of Admission.
Chapman’s Promising Futures First-Generation Program supports the academic, social and professional development of Chapman’s first-generation college students and their families. First-gen students can kickstart their college experience by participating in the Summer Bridge program designed to help them acclimate to the complexities of college life. Throughout the semester, different workshops and sessions are tailored to first-generation students. Those have included the “Dinner with…” series, Financial Literacy workshops and much more.
Student-led programs, such as the School of Communication’s Trailblazer Program, further create a welcoming, inclusive academic environment for first-generation students.
“We at Chapman University are dedicated to embracing all identities and supporting first-generation students with their academic, social and professional development,” said Athina Cuevas, assistant director of Promising Futures and the Cross-Cultural Center.
Energizing Health Sciences
Reflecting the university’s commitment to supporting the community’s health care needs, Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences continues to draw a significant portion of incoming students, with more than 13% of the new class choosing majors in health sciences fields.
Fowler School of Engineering has seen a 52% increase in applications since it was founded in 2020, and computer science majors now rank as the fifth most popular major among the incoming students.
Additional facts about the Class of 2027:
- Average GPA: 3.79
- Average scholarship award: $30,911
- Total undergraduate financial aid awarded: $65 million
