<p>Hi, can colleges tell whether a student is truly qualifies or is being polished? In my school many students attend SAT schools and some even hire professional coach. I don’t disrespect the efforts but wonder whether it is a fair game.</p>
<p>No they can’t.</p>
<p>But I agree, that is cheap.</p>
<p>No, college application is not a fair game, just like so many things in life. Everyone is going to try within their means to have that extra advantage. That being said, I know a lot of first generation immigrants getting top schools, with a lot of private school students only getting into their safeties. If you have 4.0 GPA and good SAT scores, no one can take that away from you. You may not be able to get into your absolute reaches, but you will have some good options. But if you have sub par stats, there is not enough money (well, unless your parents could donate a building) or professional coach that could help you. Focus on what you have, and don’t worry about other people.</p>