Anonymous wrote:Are the AOs able to check finances if the process is supposedly need-blind for domestic applicants?

They don't check finances, with the exception of the waitlist. However, they do have extensive algorithms that help them stay on budget. The algorithm includes factors that indicate need. The algorithm will look at the class in the aggregate. There will be yield scores for individual applicants and yield involves some sort of estimate for the financial piece. This sort of stuff happens at the end of the decision-making process, between the admissions director and the enrollment management consultant. Lower level AOs are not privy to these decisions.

Also, someone mentioned ED above. They will also have a specific budget they are meeting for ED. Same sort of process, algorithm on the back end before decisions are released.

Anonymous wrote:Listen to Lee Coffin.
He accidentally spilled the beans in a recent podcast.
Hint: they aren’t really blind and have nicknames for everyone’s SES.

One guy at an ultra competitive school doesn't speak for all colleges.