The acceptance rate is just one metric. If you look closely there are schools that accept more students with higher stats. Look around. IF a school has a lower GPA. test scores and yet has really low acceptance rates does that mean something? Why aren’t higher stats kids applying and going there.
Also many kids at many schools are now “invited” to start second semester with the first semester offered abroad. These kids didn’t apply to that program but it was offered.
There are many ways to play the numbers. IMO, larger schools that I’ve heard of doing this have been BU, NYU and Northeastern. Folks tend to get upset over rankings. IF you think NEU is for you, then go. But the hottest school in Boston is still…(not)…?