<p>When we visited CMC last Fall, my D and I attend the info session. I specifically asked whether applicants who apply ED are on an equal footing with RD applicants for merit aid. The officer was definitive in saying yes, that's why all applications have to be submitted by 12/1 for merit aid. But I am still a bit skeptical. Merit aid is traditionally used to lure in applicants who might go elsewhere, and there's no need to do that with ED applicants. Does anyone know of ED applicants who got major merit aid awards, like Seaver or ISS?</p>
<p>I received ISS as an ED applicant. I think the only piece of merit aid used to “lure” applicants in is the McKenna Achievement award. The other 2 full-tuition scholarships are actual programs where they need a definite amount of students to fill the class. McKenna is just free money.</p>
<p>Thanks @Carotid that’s good to know and congratulations on receiving such a great scholarship. I know that the ISS Scholarship focuses on students from “lower income households.” But do you know whether “lower income” is a prerequisite or a preference? And how do they define “lower income”?</p>
<p>@Cotinthian</p>
<p>Thanks. If I had to guess, I would say that demonstrating financial need is a prerequisite. The degree of severity of a student’s need would then be determined by the committee and taken into consideration. </p>