But since Harvard's announcement in 2004, there has been a succession of announcements of higher-aid programs by top-tier colleges.

The schools each earned a respected national reputation, often earning its graduates automatic admission to many of the country's top-tier colleges and universities.

Imagine yourself a senior partner in a large accounting firm that has just hired a promising analyst from a top-tier college.

The high school's college-prep academic program helps more than 40 percent of graduates gain admittance to top-tier colleges every year, he said.

But admissions requirements to bachelor's programs at top-tier colleges actually range widely, from forgiving to impressively steep.

Ever since sixth grade, Karen's daily life has been circumscribed by all she must do to reach her self-imposed goal of getting into a top-tier college.

But it's a problem admissions officers at top-tier colleges might want to keep in mind when they're assembling their freshman classes.

Doctor, lawyer, session cat - they all trim their hedges and want their children to attend top-tier colleges.

Some institutions feature honors colleges or other rigorous programs that challenge academically exceptional students, who might otherwise attend a 'top-tier' college.

In addition, the tests, which have become the gatekeeper to many top-tier colleges, have spawned a nationwide preoccupation with test taking.