University of Virginia Library

1400 From 5000

Mr. Ern emphasized that the
process of choosing 1400 members
for the entering class out of about
5,000 applications concentrates on
each individual rather than relying
on a computerized system.
The information collected about
each applicant is carefully reviewed
by at least three members of the
Faculty Committee on Admissions,
Mr. Ern stated.

Such information consists of
many factors. Most important is an
applicant's high school record, in
which his class rank is compared
against the number of students
from, his secondary school who
go on to college. Also considered
are the competition within the
secondary school and the types
of courses the student has taken.

"We don't necessarily put all
our money on sure winners," Mr.
Ern said; in addition are a number
of "calculated risks." For
example, a student who is highly
motivated but below average in
aptitude may be preferred to one
low in drive, in spite of more
innate ability.