FWIW @doschicos, Golfnephew#1 got merit aid and golf team @ (loves it) DU…Golfniece#1 got merit aid at U of Chicago - merit aid was a factor and they received more offers and $ from Midwest & Southern schools after prep school - rejected by NE schools. This was a couple of years ago, but their grades were in the 3.6-3.75 ranges - Golfnephew had more offers (we believe) because of his sport. Some schools had unique merit aid and scholarship offerings (first generation, parent who is first-responder, local family, etc) did the homework on it starting Sophomore year.