I think one uses the GPA and test score - but in general, I knew my daughter’s ECs were very good…much better than my son. So I see them either as good or not. They weren’t unique per se but they were typical - work, walking dogs, president of school humane society, leadership in youth groups at synogauge.
I “assumed” the essays were fine. Unique. Tightly written. But they are in the eye of the beholder. They certainly weren’t going to hurt. She answered the questions and didn’t have spelling errors.
If one is at 75% for both test and GPA, I would assume the student to be in - if they did the extras - apply early action if offered, demonstrated inerest if needed.
My daughter was WL at Emory (didn’t get off) and William & Mary (didn’t stay on). She was turned down UNC OOS and Rice - so these were tough.
She got into Washington & Lee which was the one I missed. It may or may not be related to we are Jewish and they are definitely seeking to grow.
The top schools rank wise (in addition to W&L) she got into were Florida, UGA, and Miami.
I think it’s fairly easy (at least on 80% of them) to pre-determine if you’ll get in or not. Yet, I read on other chains where someone clearly had little chance to get in somewhere and they are devastated they were turned down.
So basing in reality - as objective as one can be instead of assuming their kid is the best - definitely matters…if that makes sense.
Good luck.