<p>wbwa, I have to question the data you posted. I’m assuming it is an error. If 1/5 are rejected and 4/5 waitlisted at your school, according to Naviance, is no one ever accepted? The problem with Naviance, if it is the same system our county uses, is that the data, at least in our county, is all self reported by students. Because of this, we have found it to be highly inaccurate. Those accepted or waitlisted at schools are much more motivated to enter their data for that school than those they are rejected at resulting in highly inflated figures for those categories. Those rejected often list themselves as waitlisted even if they are not. Those actually offered acceptance off the waitlist rarely update those results either. </p>
<p>Even if Wash U does waitlist more students than other schools, although, again, I would dispute from first hand experience that the number is “massive,” I’m not sure why some people are so outraged by this. It allows Wash U to compile a well-balanced, highly talented student body. Absolutely no one is obligated to accept a place on the waitlist, so if anyone finds it offensive, they need not accept a spot.</p>