<p>Since applications almost always ask for this info, I suspect there might be some uses for it. My guess right now is a very toned down legacy-type effect. Or maybe it goes with why they ask for parents' occupations. Thoughts, anyone?</p>
<p>Many if not nearly all colleges will give legacy status if you have a sibling there.</p>
<p>Legacy status is also given if your parents are employees of the college. In this case, there might also be a tuition discount.</p>
<p>From what I've heard, legacies are parents and grandparents only. Siblings may be taken into some consideration with some schools.</p>
<p>Different schools will use this information in different fashions, but it is basically there to give a more complete picture of where you're coming from. It simply gives more info about who you are and your individual circumstances, much like parents' employment info.</p>
<p>Some colleges are very sibling friendly so having a sibling (especially one that is currently attending) will be the equivalent of being a legacy</p>