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<p>It can, if being in the top 2 helps you get into a super-selective school with extra-generous financial aid (e.g. HYPS). In some other threads, there are claims that being in the top 2 is one of the big academic factors in super-selective school admissions for unhooked applicants. If that is the case, then there is considerable incentive to game the high school’s ranking system for those with aspirations to super-selective schools.</p>
<p>There can also be rank gaming in places like Texas, where making or missing the top 8%, 9%, or 10% (depending on year of application) can determine whether UT Austin is a safety or a reach for you.</p>