More than 3,000 potential students have applied for next fall, setting a fourth consecutive year increase in applications.

The previous high, based on number of applications received by this time in 2005, was 2,792.

Several factors have contributed to the influx of students.

“The lottery scholarship has certainly helped but I think UTM offers the atmosphere and academic programs that many students want,” said Judy Rayburn, director of Admissions.

Rayburn also cites a “combination of location, size, safe campus, UT degree, strong academic reputation and leadership opportunities” as reasons for the increase.

Earl Wright, director of Housing, said that his office is making arrangements for the about 1,300 housing applications they have received, 81 more than this time last year.

“We are looking at ways to get these students into rooms,” Wright said. “If we can’t find them a place to live, we will work with them.” McCord Hall, which holds about 100 more residents than the University Village, will not be available next fall. The building is having asbestos removed in preparation for demolition.

An official outside of the Housing Department said that serious consideration was being given to dropping the two-year housing requirement to a single year.

This change, if it is approved, would allow sophomores to move off campus.