Colleges shouldn't reward privilege. (University of Maryland Independent Student Newspaper)

On Thursday morning a high-school senior in Texas received a strange email. “You are now presented with a unique opportunity,” it said, “to purchase your entire admissions file.”

For years, the approach that major universities take in considering minority applicants has been scrutinized and criticized by those who say black applicants get favored treatment over white and applicants

Most colleges rely on standardized tests and grades to decide who gets into their schools. A handful of schools want to change up the mix.

The board says the changes, which include an earlier registration deadline and late fees, will help students pass their AP tests.