<p>Reading through all the posts, it seems that many wait-listed students have one commonality for the most part--they needed financial aid. I know of students who have the right "hook" who were accepted, but not sterling SSATs, etc. As much as the boarding schools deny financial aid as a consideration, I think it definitely plays a significant role in admitting students. The present financial climate is not as strong as it used to be.</p>
<p>i think that the top/rich schools are just using the recession as an excuse to take in richer kids so that they can store more money for themselves. they have a LOT more than they actually spend</p>
<p>I think they have a fiduciary responsibility to not spend below a certain threshhold so the principal investment will last. Most of the funds in the scholarship pool were generated by voluntary alumni donations. Schools have no obligation to take any student or give them money. So when it happens, it’s a great gift. When it doesn’t, well . . . </p>
<p>That’s the problem I have when I write a check to my school, that some students have an entitlement issue, while others seem grateful for the assistance. The latter makes it easier for me to send money. The former makes me resentful and wanting to restrict the gift.</p>
<p>Endowments didn’t come out of thin air. And private schools are entitled to do whatever they want as long as it’s in keeping with the conditions communicated to donors.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>EGGGGGSactly.</p>