<p>Hi, sly_vt, </p>
<p>At the individual level of one applicant desiring to attend Harvard, it is disadvantageous to increase the number of strong applicants to Harvard by spreading the word abroad that Harvard is affordable. But at the systemic level of the whole country, it is good for every student and for every college to invite the most capable students to apply to the colleges they most desire. Perhaps my son–to make this example really personal–will be edged out when he applies to his dream school (whatever school that is) by some overqualified foreign student from a poor country. But if my son is ready for a top-tier college at all, he can thrive in another college, and if that college too has admitted more strong students from abroad, the academic and social life there will be enhanced. I still think it is an overall win-win for everyone for colleges to be open to, and to be known to be open to, all the best students who desire to attend them.</p>