Athletic $$ vs. Need based $$

The ivies “no athletic scholarships” rule can be a bit of a joke. Since they give excellent need based aid (which only they determine), unless a student is affluent, they can pretty much fully fund most of their athletes.

There was a father on CC a few years back who had a very high income. His child was a desirable athlete for one or more ivies. He ended either getting a full ride FA, or nearly a full ride FA award. It was a joke. I’m sure if the NCAA had investigated, the school would have had a hard time justifying THAT away in comparison to non-athletes’ awards with similar financial circumstances. This student was also a highly desirable male URM. I don’t know if that also “inspired” the school to be extra generous.