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<p>I think that’s the point of having other terrific schools. I feel sympathy for students whose hopes are crushed, but really, I think the resounding message has to be that there are a <em>ton</em> of places with amazing education out there, that a lot of students might realize fit their needs very well, after they get older.</p>
<p>I am quite on the side of those who would like more of what is ‘traditionally’ considered meritocratic (in all admissions systems for undergrad). I think our minimum standardized tests, classes, etc should be at a higher level, and should be taken more seriously than the numbers indicate (nowadays, it appears that for elite schools, the only way for basic academics to give you a really good boost is by doing well at competitions and things like that, and I think the baseline level for ‘qualified’ should come from better measures than our current education provides). I don’t mind if there are other factors considered in undergraduate admissions. </p>
<p>I think that’s what you really want too, if you think about it (OP). If the baseline academic level expected were higher, then it probably would be less frustrating. The higher score wins mentality is probably not something that will be favored by most, and I don’t think it makes much sense either, because that encourages feeding tons and tons of money into test preparation and things like that.</p>