<p>My dad is is an Amherst grad (Class of '72). How much does a legacy truly help at Amherst? I’m only a junior but I’m still curious as I have starting looking at possibilities.</p>
<p>My nephew was a double legacy at Amherst and was deferred ED, then rejected.</p>
<p>That is what they call a courtesy......don't want to deny so they hang you out to dry. Sorry about that.</p>
<p>But was your nephew underqualified?</p>
<p>Well, his scores were great, but his grades not as stellar. Oh well...</p>
<p>By the way, I just heard from my sister that Amherst offers the opportunity for children of alums to be evaluated by the head of the Admissions Office during the summer before senior year of h.s. Apparently, students can find out then what their chances are, and are given advice on what needs to improve to increase one's chances in general.</p>
<p>Yes, that service is called Dean Days.</p>
<p>It's almost an interview but it doesn't count against you like a real one would. The admission staff either recommend you to apply or to save the effort based on anything you've done/scored by the end of junior year.</p>
<p>As far as I know it's the only college to offer such a program.</p>
<p>Nothing scientific but being a legacy applying to Amherst would increase your chances by at least 15%. Have you seen the PBS video?</p>