Most universities aren't having much trouble finding qualified applicants. Instead, they're having trouble finding enough funding to expand their programs to me

Most universities aren't having much trouble finding qualified applicants. Instead, they're having trouble finding enough funding to expand their programs to meet the demand, especially in public universities. However, it could be assumed that a previously-rejected applicant may have done any number of things to improve their qualifications in the 3-12 months between application periods. Most universities will have some advisors that will be able to tell you any number of things you can do in a relatively short period of time to improve your chances of being accepted, such as re-taking exams or specific classes. In other cases, related programs may have more openings (or fewer applicants), improving your chances of getting into those programs. Sometimes just getting to know the people involved in the program (faculty and advising staff) can improve your chances, as being able to recall a face that goes with the name on the page can be the deciding factor between two similarly-qualified candidates. At the very least, it shows an active interest in the program, as opposed to someone that sent out applications to X, Y, and Z universities (after all, how many of the accepted students actually enroll is important, too).