<p>I always assumed that a "legacy" meant that an applicants mother or father attended the college/university that the child is applying to. Would this apply if the applicant had a brother/sister attended the college or is the status reserved only for the parents? Also, is there any weight given if an applicant had a brother or sister graduate from that school? Thank you</p>
<p>It depends on the school. Only parents give you an official “legacy” status, but any family connection can be helpful. It is all about money and alumni contributions at the end…</p>
<p>“Legacy” status is often only helpful for ED admissions, and even then it is just a “tip” factor.</p>
<p>At some schools grandparents count but I’ve never heard of a sibling counting. A sib can be a tip factor if they are still at the college.</p>
<p>IMO, legacy is a hook rather than a tip factor. It more than doubles your chances at every ivy for example.</p>
<p>It really varies by school. Here’s what the University of Michigan says about it:</p>
<p>“Although not a primary factor in admissions decisions, having a parent, step-parent, grandparent, or sibling who attended the University of Michigan will be considered a plus in the review of your application.”</p>
<p>It’s becoming less of a hook at top colleges. They now have so many alumni.</p>
<p>Is it a hook if the parents/grandparents aren’t donors? Is it just about the money?</p>
<p>It means you are looked at favorably because of someone else’s merit instead of your own</p>