Really interesting discussion. I have twins who were both accepted into the class of 2021 two years ago. The one with the slightly higher stats had a 1500 SAT, 34 ACT, National Merit Finalist, IB program at #1 ranked HS in PA and 4 year varsity athlete and he received zero merit (intended Major was Biochemistry). EFC was about $38k per year. He received full tuition plus $16k in research stipends from Temple University and is happily in his sophomore year.