[jaybrendansmith]

It's like a good fit for a job. If the school is not looking for many CompSci that year, they will pass. But if you are a history buff and the history department needs another declared major, you're all set. And your High School unfortunately really mattered then, and it matters even more now, especially with SAT scores disfavored. Also if you live in Mass vs Texas, because they likely have quotas for state residents, international, etc. And they pull first from magnate high schools and private schools, up to a third of their acceptances so I've heard. Currently it is smart to apply to more schools if your parents can afford it, as it increases the chance of a 'lucky strike'. And up at that level, much of it is luck.