Talking Comp: Gauging Salary Range

Main purpose of this post is to try and gather advice/wisdom on deciphering posted salaries on job openings. Try to think of this from the standpoint of someone like myself (soon to be college grad). I keep seeing the ubiquitous, vague salaries posted on job offerings like the following I've just made up: 

"Base salary for ___ program is based on several factors, including but not limited to relevant experience. Program members have the potential to earn significant income in their early years if performance is deemed excellent. The salary range for this position is $65,000 - $90,000 and an exceptional candidate may be eligible to receive incentive compensation. _____ also provides benefits like medical, dental, vision, and blah blah blah. 

Obviously the difference between getting paid 65k and 90k is pretty large, almost 40%. I guess I'm just curious what variables dictate where they place you on the range, and how much weight is applied to each variable. When I say variables I mean things like work experience, cost of living/location, how badly they want you, etc. and how important each is. Or maybe the program is multi-yeared and you start at 65k and end at 90k? Is that range just something provided to be vague and everyone will get the 65k - 75k offer or could you legitimately make a case for yourself to get the 90k, and if so, how? There is a lot of variability here, so I'm really just curious how others decipher this grey area and pinpoint where they (or me) would expect to be able to fall in these sort of ranges, and how to possibly negotiate for better. 

Appreciate all opinions and advice, thanks folks.