I didn't disagree with you :) My point that the US disproportionately rewards the high end of a curve was an observation as opposed to a value judgment. This has caused many social problems, and IMHO is the wrong way to run things. Nonetheless, for people who feel that they can profit much more in this environment (i.e. top-end-of-the-curve types) it's very attractive.

"Top tier American schools are highly-overrated and highly overpriced these days."

Perception, in this case, trumps reality. The reality is that a MIT degree is worth a hell of a lot more in salary than a random eastern European university. Whether or not the education truly is better is moot - people want in on the USA because it generally will lead to a better life than they've got now - assuming "now" is an underdeveloped country.