There’s no single answer. Some schools consider admission and financial need together, some keep it separate, but most don’t consider need at all. Some meet full need, and others don’t.
Often two read every app, and if they disagree a third will read and/or a committee will discuss. Too much material submitted may simply be ignored. But schools handle it differently.
Only submit bonafide supplemental material that they allow and that adds something necessary that can’t be found elswhere in your app.
Need aware schools will consider if you applied for FA, when they get down to those last few applciants and the spots they are trying to fill.
Some need aware colleges only consider need toward the end of their work, as a tie breaker or as funds are running low. Pays to see how your targets describe this.
Holistic schools read your whole file, but that means the asked-for parts, not necessarily extras. Bear in mind, many extras aren’t needed, are too lengthy or specific, or simply aren’t relevant to an admit review. Adcoms don’t have time to read your research report, your novel, your blog, your entire life history, the extra rec letters from your karate coach, etc. So choose wisely. Know what does matter to them.
Because your whole app package, incl LoRs. gets roughly 15 munutes.
When we attended college admission presentations, Adcoms kept telling students and parents to follow the college application instructions. If they tell you they need two LoR, send two. If they say three, send three. Do not send any extra. They don’t have time to read and they consider you not following their rules.
I am sure they are exceptions to the rules but if your “extra” is not extra special, do not send. When you ask your teachers and GC to write you LoR, give them your " brag shhets". They will find a way to put those in the letters. Concentrate on your essay. Make it stand out and show who you are.
Members of ACs know they are making an area important decision so would be inclined to read every required piece carefuly. My guess is students who are absolute admits or absolute denials would have a quicker review of materials. Members are trained, practiced, fair, knowledgeable, and professional. The time is not the issue. Rather, the readers take the time they need to make the best decision. You appear concerned. Readers are not academic axe murderers. You can depend on thoughtful, professional review of required information.
@lookingforward I hadn’t considered that they might spend more time on the required portions than the supplemental - thanks for bringing it up! I’ll keep it in mind.
@zannah Quite acute of you; yes, I am concerned. I’m worried that my SAT (first time taking, much lower than anticipated [above the national average, but far below what I was aiming for]) and course rigor make me an “absolute denial” as you put it, but think that if given adequate time to explain my situation via the additional information sections, I could make a solid case for admittance. Your comment offers me comfort, so thank you very much 