<p>I think “computer admit” is unlikely–SOMEONE reviews your app, even if only the people who data-enter the material into the system. My guess is that what you experienced was some sort of “accelerated review.” That is, once they’ve established that your scores are high, GPA is good, and curriculum was challenging, only one person needs to eyeball the other stuff before giving it an OK.</p>
<p>Like you, I don’t buy the “easy $30” remark either. Processing applications is incredibly labor-intensive and expensive. It’s not a money maker. And it’s also alienating to families–you think a public school like Illinois likes to say “No” to its citizens? They like to be selective, sure, but all told, I think a public school would rather the no-chance-in-heck students didn’t apply at all.</p>