<p>dt123, that’s how I read it too. I think USC offers Trustee and Presidential interviews to less than 900 admitted students (out of approx 35,000 applicants)–and Stanford accepts about 2400 students (out of approx. 23,000 applicants). At this extremely high level of selectivity (just like with ivy admissions) there can be no guaranteed “match”. It’s understandable for top top students to be disappointed if they don’t get the prize, especially when they perceive someone with lesser stats may have been accepted. </p>
<p>In holistic admissions, ecs, major, letters of rec, and–yes–URM status can all play a role. But even if schools made decisions strictly by the numbers, those SAT scores from one or two test dates, can also not predict which student is most qualified. And one audition day (like one good hair day) does not an entire life and career make. It’s just the way the ball bounces. I commend USC for being one of the very few top 30 USN&WR ranked universities that actually offers merit awards of such generosity to so many. But I understand the frustrations of those who must have just missed the cut.</p>