<p>Once a college reaches a certain level of competitiveness, the admissions decisions become much less predictable. That is because such a high percentage of the applicants are well-qualified. With holistic admissions reviews, many students with very high scores do not get admitted, while students with slightly lower scores do get admitted.</p>
<p>Just look at UVa and W&M. Statistically, they are similar in their admission results. However, every year, many students get admitted to UVa and not to W&M, and visa versa. You can see the same pattern among many other colleges that are competitive with UVa. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to apply to a range of colleges, and to have a couple of real safeties that are BOTH academic and financial safeties and where you could be happy.</p>
<p>Also, be wary of well meaning relatives and friends who may have an outdated view of college admissions. They may make a student feel that they will have not trouble getting admitted to a very competitive college, and set the student up for a big disappointment and a lack of backup options.</p>