<p>To avoid some of the favoritism described here, some schools make the review for NHS anonymous. Students’ transcripts are reviewed by an independent panel without names attached. Selection is based on grades, ECs, and leadership. Perhaps those who have experienced favoritism could suggest this method at your schools - why would the school administration object to a more equitable procedure? I would think that they don’t want to be accused of bias either.</p>
<p>Additionally, some private schools no longer do NHS and they have their own merit or “cum laude” societies, which are usually restricted to the top 10% academic, plus ECs and leadership.</p>