Why a good program accepts me, not other bad ones

[CogneuroChina]

I get offer from my dream school, and a lot of rejs from other school i apply.

It is too odd.

If I can get into the best program I apply, why does other bad ones reject me?

If I am really that bad, why does the dream school accept me and give me fellowship?

Am I just so lucky?

[Mr. Tea]

Three possibilities I can think of off hand, all of which may apply:

1) The other programs anticipate that you will get a better offer elsewhere and will not accept if they offer you a position.

2) You spent more time on the application for your top choice and it shows.

3) Your research interests probably fit better with your top choice program than with your other programs.

[tibbles]

I would agree with Mr. Tea - I've had a range of programs accept and reject me, and most of the acceptances, it was where I took the time to craft my personal statement to the particular interests of the faculty at the university. Otherwise I just got a big fat no!

And definitely be very happy that you got into your top choice!