<p>acme, I’d point out two things. First, since applications are up across the board, colleges rankings to each other may not change as much as you’re anticipating. Second, I’d argue that a good deal of the attraction top colleges have is that you’re surrounded by other very bright people. If colleges become more selective that factor gains even more prominence as the people they pull in will enhance the quality of conversation even more. You’re right that it’s the same dorms and same professors, but don’t neglect the impact of different students.</p>