Legacy admissions can feel like a whispered secret in the college admissions process—known by some, misunderstood by many, and often surrounded by controversy. As someone who has worked with students from all walks of life—first-generation, low-income, international, and yes, legacy—I’ve seen firsthand how the college process is shaped by access, opportunity, and, sometimes, family connections.
So, do legacy admissions really matter? And if you have connections, how can you use them without overstepping? This is a conversation worth having, especially as colleges continue rethinking what fairness and equity mean in an evolving admissions landscape.
Legacy Admissions: Do They Matter and How to Leverage Connections
Legacy admissions refer to preferential treatment given to applicants who have family members—usually parents or grandparents—who attended the same institution. While it doesn’t guarantee admission, it can be a slight edge in a competitive pool, particularly at private universities and selective liberal arts colleges.
I’ve advised students who were legacies at places like Dartmouth, USC, and Georgetown. In some cases, legacy status helped tip the scales. In others, it wasn’t enough. Here’s what students need to know if they’re navigating this part of the process.
Understanding the Role of Legacy in Admissions Decisions
How much does legacy status matter?
It depends on the institution. At some elite private universities, legacy status can be a factor—especially in early decision rounds. According to a 2023 New York Times report, legacy students at certain Ivy League schools were admitted at rates two to four times higher than non-legacy applicants. But that gap is narrowing.
Some universities, like Amherst and Johns Hopkins, have eliminated legacy admissions entirely in favor of more equitable practices. Public universities typically don’t consider legacy at all. So while legacy might matter at some schools, it’s far from a universal advantage.
What does legacy actually influence?
In most cases, legacy status doesn’t automatically place you in the “yes” pile. But it might:
- Get your application a closer read from admissions officers
- Make a difference in borderline decisions
- Strengthen your case in early decision or restrictive early action rounds
- Highlight your family’s continued relationship with the school, which some institutions value
That said, legacy status won’t make up for weak academics, lack of rigor, or an underwhelming application. I often remind legacy students: you still have to earn your place.
Real stories from students
Jared, whose father went to Penn, applied early decision. His GPA and test scores were solid but not exceptional. His legacy status helped get him noticed, but what sealed the deal was his compelling essay about maintaining his family’s tradition of community service through a nonprofit he co-founded.
On the flip side, Priya was a legacy at a top-tier university but didn’t get in. Her application lacked clarity in her academic interests, and she applied regular decision. Legacy gave her a nudge, but it couldn’t overcome a vague personal statement and average extracurriculars.
How to Leverage Connections Ethically and Effectively
If you’re a legacy student—or have other meaningful connections to a college—there are ways to use that background without sounding entitled or inauthentic.
1. Be transparent in your application
Use the Additional Information section or your personal statement to briefly mention your family connection, but make sure the focus stays on your own goals. For example, “My mother’s stories of late-night study sessions in the campus library sparked my curiosity about environmental engineering, which I’ve pursued through independent research and fieldwork.”
It’s not about name-dropping. It’s about showing how your connection deepened your own interest.
2. Engage with alumni networks genuinely
If you have alumni in your family, ask them to connect you with others in their field. Attending alumni-led webinars or campus events can help you learn more about the school—and demonstrate demonstrated interest in your application.
One student I worked with, Emily, was a legacy at Northwestern. She interviewed with an alumna who was impressed not just by Emily’s family tie, but by her thoughtful questions about the school’s journalism program. That conversation helped her stand out.
3. Consider applying early if you’re a strong fit
Early decision rounds are where legacy status can have more weight. Schools like to see commitment, and legacy students who apply early may signal a deeper connection. Just make sure your application is ready to shine.
If you’re deferred from early decision—as I’ve seen happen even with legacy students—take a look at next steps after deferral to keep your chances alive.
4. Secure strong letters of recommendation
Whether you’re a legacy or not, glowing letters can elevate your application. But if your recommender also has a connection—say, a teacher who’s an alum—they can subtly reinforce your fit for the school. Just make sure the letter is about you, not your family.
If you’re unsure how to approach recommendation strategy, our guide on recommendation letters can help clarify the process.
Legacy or Not, Build a Strong Application First
This is something I tell every student: no one gets in based on legacy alone. Your academics, activities, essays, and recommendations all matter more.
Resources like our first-generation applicant guide and advice for homeschooled students show that colleges are looking for authentic, well-rounded individuals—not just last names.
And if you’re aiming high, our article on getting into Ivy League schools provides a deeper look at what it really takes—legacy or not.
In the end, what you bring to the table—your story, your vision, your work—matters most.
Tips for All Students, Legacy or Not
- Start early so you can craft thoughtful essays and build strong relationships with recommenders
- Visit campuses or attend virtual sessions to show interest and gain insight
- Use summer activities to deepen your academic or extracurricular passions
- Don’t underestimate the power of a personal statement—own your voice
FAQ: Legacy Admissions and Connections
Does legacy status matter more at private or public universities?
Legacy status is generally more influential at private institutions. Most public universities, especially large state schools, do not consider legacy as a factor in admissions decisions.
Can mentioning a family connection hurt my application?
Not usually, as long as it’s handled appropriately. Focus on how the connection influenced your goals or values. Avoid making it seem like you expect special treatment.
What if I’m not a legacy—am I at a disadvantage?
Not necessarily. Most applicants aren’t legacies. Colleges are increasingly prioritizing equity, and many are moving away from legacy preferences altogether. Focus on building a compelling application that reflects your unique story.
Can letters from alumni help if I’m not a legacy?
Yes, especially if the alum knows you well and can speak to your character and potential. A thoughtful letter from an alum can demonstrate your connection to the school community, even if you’re not related by blood.
Final Thoughts: Relationships Matter, But So Does You
Legacy admissions are one small piece of a much bigger puzzle. If you have a family connection, use it to show depth and continuity—not entitlement. And if you don’t, know that colleges are increasingly looking beyond legacy to build diverse, thoughtful, and driven communities.
Whether you’re applying as a legacy, a first-generation student, or somewhere in between, the most powerful thing you can do is tell your story with clarity and conviction. Your voice is your greatest asset—and no legacy can replace that.