What are the 3rd and 4th tier schools?

While any of the Tier 1 schools is always a gamble for any student, my son got into two Ivies with the same 4.0 and 30 ACT. He didn’t have any over the top ECs. He was a URM IB diploma student from an area where most kids don’t even dream of top tier schools and I know that helped. He just picked schools he liked for his matches and reaches. So I’m encouraging you not to give up on the Tier 1 schools if they fit the profile you are looking for, but pick some Tier 2 and a few safeties as well. Best of luck.