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Coastal Carolina University will no longer accept freshman applications from out-of-state students for the upcoming 2011-2012 academic year, according to an announcement made by CCU President David A. DeCenzo.

The University will continue to accept qualified in-state freshman applications until one week prior to the beginning of the fall semester, which starts on Aug. 22. However, freshman housing is limited, so students in need of housing should apply immediately.

DeCenzo said the decision was made in an effort to balance in-state and out-of-state student enrollment while honoring CCU's responsibility as a state institution to serve the higher education needs of the citizens of South Carolina. "CCU will accept all qualified high school graduates of this state who wish to seek a quality education at our institution," he said.

The University's freshman applications for the upcoming year are up 11 percent compared to last year. By adjusting the admissions policy, DeCenzo says CCU will maintain an equitable geographical distribution that provides diversification in the student body while meeting the state mandate to educate South Carolinians.

• Keep up todate with all Coastal Carolina News by heading over to their Coastal News section. 

The news of a higher freshman class bodes well for Coastal Carolina but that isn't the only good news for CCU as of late. On May 7 CCU had its largest ever graduating class. WMBF News has a great write-up on the historic graduating class. Will the class of 2015 beat out this years record breaking numbers? 

Watch WMBF's coverage of the clas of 2011's big day below.