<p>Way back in the 80s I received a Harvard National Scholarship and I distinctly remember the cover letter saying that it had been awarded on a competitive basis to 75 applicants that year. That was before the big antitrust settlement, however, when the Ivies used to meet and agree to provide jointly admitted candidates the same financial aid packages so no one would “pay” more for top candidates. While there were not academic scholarships per se, the more desirable candidates got all-grants, while less desirable candidates were awarded a mix of grants, loans and work study…</p>