<p>Getting back to the original post, it looks like FA need is a significant negative factor in acceptance, but in a positive way, so are hooks including URM, recruited athlete etc. I think the main idea is that despite great stats, community service etc, national awards and no financial need, there are still lots of fantastic students who still get lots of rejection.</p>
<p>I don’t think we should conclude that whether or not you get in is all about financial need. What struck me about csi’s post, is how much of a surprise it is when you’re a top student (FA need or not) and you don’t get in (…to anywhere).</p>
<p>This tells me that the admissions process is very subjective, and I think the warning is well issued: work your hardest, apply to lots of schools, just be yourself and hope that one good school sees something in you to give you an opportunity. Whether you get into Choate or Exeter, Andover or Middlesex or Loomis or…it’s not a stamp of approval which says somehow you are better than another student who didn’t happen to get in to that school. You have to seek out opportunities, but if you don’t get accepted, look for others. They are out there.</p>