The University of Maryland, College Park announced yesterday that a record number of students have applied for a shrinking numbers of spots in next year's freshman class.

Applications are up 17 percent this year, to more than 27,000, after three years of increases, the college said in a statement.

This year's increase reflects a national trend of rising applications at selective colleges and universities that is attributed to a bulge in the high school population, which is expected to begin to decline in two years.

In addition, a higher percentage of high school students are applying to college, and more are deciding to apply to multiple schools.

The university said it expects its freshman class to be 4,050 students, nearly 200 students fewer than last year.

"By limiting the size of the freshman class, we are able to provide students with an exceptional learning experience and greater access to the many resources available here," said Barbara Gill, director of undergraduate admissions.