<p>If you want a really good look at what Amherst is looking for, Google “Behind the Scenes, How do you get into Amherst College” which is an expose done by NPR on what they are looking for and the admissions process. Click on the “Listen to the Story” link to hear the audio rather than read the transcript. It is very daunting. When it comes to Amherst, I don’t think mere mortals should bother to apply.</p>
<p>@GDMACK: Thanks for the tip. A sobering revelation that dimmed my hopes for my younger brother for garnering admission to an elite institution. He will be a valedictorian and has great scores, but obviously this is not enough. (I wonder if siblings count as legacy, haha).</p>
<p>When you reach a certain bar, it is very much up to chance. As such, just apply to a broad range of elite schools, which will increase your odds of getting into at least one of them. That’s just how it goes.</p>
<p>just a (hopefully) final update:</p>
<p>-i got a 34 on the ACT (10 writing)
-I’ll be a national AP scholar!!! i have a total of six 5’s and 3 4’s</p>
<p>S was accepted to Amherst and Williams with similar stats. I think the Classics major is a hook because they need to graduate students from these little departments.</p>
<p>He chose Williams and was very happy there. I am sure Amherst is equally wonderful.</p>