<p>UChicago attracts relatively fewer applicants and thus accepts a higher percentage of them because it simply lacks the name, prestige, “fun college atmosphere” and elite image that Stanford, the Ivies and even Duke/MIT have. </p>
<p>Despite anecdotal evidence to the contrary, on the whole more Americans know about HYPS than Chicago. Chicago isn’t associated with social climbing, college fun, or prestige, therefore it attracts fewer applicants. </p>
<p>So in that respect, yes, it is easier to get into Chicago than a comparable school. I feel that anyone from a competitive high school will also encounter that same reputation. Doesn’t mean Chicago is inferior in any way; it just appeals to a different (more informed? :P) demographic.</p>