<p>Hey so I'm wondering if the fact that I have cancer (am currently HS senior going through treatments but the plan is that it'll all be in remission by next year so I'm apply to colleges now) carries any weight in the application process. I have very good grades and scores and was previously planning on applying to top schools; a tier below the Harvard's and Stanford's.</p>
<p>Do you know if it would be worthwhile applying to these other elite schools on the basis of a severe medical illness to buoy the application? Many people are encouraging me to increase my apps to these super-reach schools, but I have no idea if they're knowledgeable about these sorts of admission policies.</p>
<p>I am very sorry to hear about your cancer. Hang in there :). Writing an college essay about it would increase your chances a lot.</p>
<p>I would think it’d help a lot. Most of the applicants at top tier schools are good candidates, so they do tend to look for people who stand out. Challenges that students have overcome or are overcoming tend to be things that make students stand out, and the fact that you’re battling cancer is definitely a challenge you are overcoming! </p>
<p>However, even if you did get accepted, you wouldn’t want to attend one of those big name schools just because they’re a big name. If you do decide to apply and do get accepted, you must make sure that the schools are actually good fits for you! Also, you must be sure that you can handle the course-load and that you can afford it (either from your own pocket or with financial aid).
Do have lower tier schools at hand in case. </p>
<p>There’s no reason to not apply. If you don’t get in, you don’t get in. If you do, YAY! If you wind up not even liking the schools, at least you can say, “I got into Harvard!”</p>
<p>Good luck with everything, especially your cancer. I wish you a speedy recovery!</p>
<p>Make sure your guidance counselor will confirm your medical condition on her recommendation form. The colleges don’t want to rely solely on the student’s word for extenuating circumstances 
Also, although it may give you a boost, it won’t help you unless your GPA and test scores are competitive for those super-select schools. If you are a fully qualified applicant then it might help you stand out a little.
So feel free to add a few reaches, but you should concentrate on those schools you know to be a good financial and academic fit.
Good luck with everything…</p>