<p>^
True. You can’t calculate out a specific formula with the data available. The process certainly isn’t transparent by my reckoning. But it’s entirely possible that the fact that the admissions process is neither entirely random nor entirely uniform across various universities increases the justification for applying to several schools. If you start with the assumption that you are generally in the ballpark for admission to a group of schools, and that the adcoms at different schools are composed of people with different prejudices tasked with meeting institutional goals as they build a class out of a distinct group of applicants, you have a better chance if you put your application in front of as many varied “eyes” as possible.</p>
<p>If you’re looking to find a spouse I don’t see why you would limit yourself to one date, or one method of seeking the spouse out. Your chances are better if you use your network of friends, go to a few clubs, museums, or whatever, hit a few bars, and get on more than one dating site.</p>