Need-Blind Admissions, Not So Need-Blind
May 17th, 2009In this economy, applying for financial aid may be an admissions disadvantage.
Most families are surprised to see the page one question on the common application form that asks whether you will be seeking financial aid. Ultimately, the question means admissions committees are aware of your financial need as they review your application packet.
True, the question does not reveal how much aid you will need. But the fact that the question is asked and the answer is available to admissions officials, it would seem that those schools that tout themselves as need-blind just might not be so need-blind as they indicate.
Paying in Full
In late March, the New York Times reported on what may or may not be a changing college dynamic. In “Paying in Full as the Ticket into Colleges,” the Times notes that schools are in fact letting in more wealthy students despite claims they are need-blind.
According to the Times, schools are admitting more students from the waiting list and more transfer students. In addition, some colleges have accepted more international students and only those international students that can pay in full. In addition, there was the suggestion that some schools may be using zip codes or parental backgrounds to help assess a family’s ability to pay.
This should come as no surprise given the financial times. College endowments have followed the path of most families’ college savings plans; sharply downward.
This creates a double-edged sword for higher education. Many applicants are in greater need of financial aid at the very same time that schools have fewer funds available to allocate.
Subsequently, the result has placed an even greater importance on a student’s ability to pay. Simply stated, every full paying student provides additional funds for schools allowing them to then help other students.
And the more full-paying students a school has, the better the school is able to weather the economic downturn.
Not So Need-Blind
While few schools seem willing to admit it, the general consensus is that financial need is playing a more significant role in the selection process. That may not be welcome news for students but it is a fact that applicants must keep in mind.
So, if schools are not so need-blind, what should a student do? The answer is relatively simple.
If you have the funds for school, you may now apply to more selective schools with greater confidence that an acceptance can follow. The economy will not make up for a poor transcript, but in an increasingly competitive market, strong resumes combined with an indication that you will not require financial aid may mean a greater chance of being accepted at more selective colleges.
For those in need of funds, a little more time selecting schools may be necessary. Given that your need might play a role in being accepted, it is imperative that you carefully select your back-up schools based upon a realistic desire to attend those schools.
In theory, need-blind means that your application would be reviewed based on your credentials only. In practicality, it could mean your need would get in the way of your being accepted at the more selective colleges.
Therefore you might get passed over by your number one college choice despite your academic record. If your own state university is not one you truly want to use as a back up, then examine flagship campuses in other states for a school that would meet your academic needs.
