Appeals aren’t unusual at competitive colleges and universities, particularly state schools. But unlike the University of Illinois, most said they publicize the option.
Only one university contacted by the Tribune said it had an unadvertised process similar to the U. of I.’s.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison doesn’t publicize appeals either but says it is not swayed by clout.
“Some people think getting a letter of recommendation from a name will make a difference, and it really doesn’t,” said Joanne Berg, vice provost for enrollment management.