<p>To try to get back to the purpose of this thread, I think the main point is that SCEA was intended to be like ED but without the commitment. Practically, however, it isn’t utilized that way by those who apply “strategically”. I know some who HAVE applied SCEA and also EA to other schools and aren’t found out. It is also increasingly possible-if not “moral”-to be accepted ED and then decline for financial reasons.</p>
<p>Re: financial aid, the parents posting on this thread KNOW that 200k doesn’t go very far in today’s world. I have two kids in college now, one at MIT and the other at Penn; am paying full freight for both. I’m happy I can afford it. However, unless one’s income is substantially higher than 200k, then paying 110-120k after-tax for college is VERY difficult.</p>