<p>They should be, right? Especially with the lack of opportunities/resources in some of the third-world countries..
Tell me what you think :)</p>
<p>Wrong, the international pool is even more competitive as they are only 10% of the admitted class every year. An average international student has to compete among the students in private/exam schools, students of dignitaries/business and political elite, alumni, etc. in their country/continent. There is no leniency for anyone. An individual with leadership skills will shine everywhere. He/she just has to demonstrate by choosing different venues than what a US based student will choose. When you see their top academic achievements, ECs, score and fluency in the English language, then you understand why these international students were accepted by top US schools.</p>