<p>Yes, you can get preferential packaging at some schools. Where it usually happens is at schools that include loans in the financial aid packages and/or do not meet full need. Even if Admissions and Fin Aid are separate offices, admits can be coded to be on the “A” list which means those kids get the best aid and other benefits like special invitation days,likely letters. </p>
<p>I’ve seen this very distinctly with NYU. I’ve seen kids gapped big time and kids getting the best FA package from them. All depends on how much the school wants them.</p>
<p>But if you don’t qualify for need and the school does not give merit money, it doesn;t work in a way that they will give you fin aid. You have to meet need requirements.</p>