not sure if this is common. on my interview, where we had to fill out a simple sheet with basic info, one of the questions were : what other schools have you applied to, with about 4 available spots available to answer. I put down 2 cheap state schools. I was questioned in my interview about puting down 2 state schools, and if money was a determining factor ( tuition). I would suggest to fill out only private schools, if you did apply there, such as BU,TUFTS,TEMPLE,etc.
I also got grilled about applying to state schools. The secretary said it was optional to fill out that part, so maybe don't fill it out. I had to reiterate like 5 times that I thought NYU was a top tier institution worth the money.
I also got grilled about applying to state schools. The secretary said it was optional to fill out that part, so maybe don't fill it out. I had to reiterate like 5 times that I thought NYU was a top tier institution worth the money.