<p>^ Just saying: rank doesn’t tell much about a high school’s competitiveness. If a kid makes it to top 3% with a 3.66, it doesn’t always mean there’s grade deflation and you’ve found a worthy gem. It can be an oopsie moment. It could be a non-competitive hs and instead of knocking it out of the park, he got a few non-A grades in courses that matter- and only a few peers bested him. Have to look at the transcript, Lors and check various data points that indicate the school context.</p>
<p>A lot of people believe an elite college is a reward for how you succeeded in your hs. Ime, for the elites, it’s more about the potential you exhibit to succeed at that college. I hope OP’s kid has plenty going for him or her.</p>