I would find a way to ask the questions informally. I would keep the questions phrased in terms of being a more competitive applicant.
I would not expect specific answers to questions sent via email. Risk management is increasingly important. If Student A were told that his/her application materials for X, Y, and Z weren't up to standard, and later found out that other applicants had lower Xs, Ys, and Zs, there could be...controversy.