<p>GG, are you sure you understand this? I won’t debate the fine distinctions in the meaning of “almost always” or other value terms, but do want to deal with some points of substance. </p>
<p>Let’s take tax issues first. You provide two links quotes. The first discusses reimbursement to employees for courses taken by employees. (I doubt our kids would be considered employees. 
) The second is directed at “domestic partners and certain dependents”. This is an issue in the tax code, because in some jurisdictions, as I understand it, domestic partners not married are not considered spouses so benefits to them and their children can be taxable. I know of no case where a tuition break to children of employees of a higher ed institution was considered taxable. Some faculty and a very few staff also get a portable benefit where their home institution pays tuition at any other institution. This has had a more controversial tax status, but is still tax free. </p>
<p>Regarding admissions edges, I have first hand knowledge of the results co-workers achieved at Harvard and Chicago, and indirect knowledge of the results at several other elite colleges. Based on my knowledge, as well as the published ed literature I’ve seen, a 200 point benefit is beyond credibility. Even legacy breaks are not of this magnitude. IF you have a published (heck, even a website) to support such a claim, I’d love to see it. I would also love to see some published evidence to back up the assertion you first made about "only have to meet the academic criteria and they are in, tuition-free. "</p>
<p>Happy Thanksgiving…</p>