<p>As a student applying to the insanely selective universities of the United States (International student, so nothing to lose ;) ), I was wondering if American universtities and colleges perform background checks. Two of my classmates (one brazilian and one serbian) are lying on their apps, and its really bugging me that I'll have to compete against people that lie about their awards and ec's, specially if they lie about an award I've possibly received. So I wanted to know if students that lie are ever caught. And, if teachers mention your activities on the rec letters, do schools perform background checks? Thx</p>
<p>They can perform background checks if something is fishy. I don't think it's <em>that</em> common. Hm, I've never heard of anyone doing this and I haven't really thought about all the pros and cons, but you could think about emailing the admissions office from an anonymous email address and tell them they may want to check someone's credentials if you think they're lying.</p>
<p>If they get accepted and they're caught while studying at that college, they are expelled. At least Dartmouth says that. I can't find the link. Search CC - I saw it somewhere.</p>
<p>It is best not to lie in general. Think about it. One will get caught in a web of lies sometime in his/her life. You don't want to look back and regret it.</p>
<p>You never know if a college will do a background check. Better safe than sorry.</p>
<p>Thanks for answering. Man I despise cheeting, and even more when it might affect me if they get accepted for bogus qualifications and I'm not >:( . Oh well...</p>
<p>Just remember, you don't want to end up being the perpetrator. Not a good bargain.</p>
<p>I would pass the information to the Guidance Counselor or other appropriate authority. These people are endangering the reputation at your school.</p>