Angling for admissions into a highly selective institution by applying to one of its less selective programs can backfire. Once admitted, you may be committed to that program. Moving into a different program often involves a competitive transfer process-even between departments of the same institution. We seek to admit the best candidates regardless of their academic interests. This is now changing.
Many institutions now allow a family's ability to pay tuition to influence the selection process.
If you achieve at the highest level and make your interest in a college well-known, you are likely to gain consideration regardless of your family's financial status. Candidates with the strongest credentials are not affected. The basic selection process is similar at all institutions. Trained professionals rely on their experience to select the most appropriate candidates. At many colleges, a member of the committee is responsible for an initial review of your application.