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<p>I agree that this is probably one of the key factors in improving yield; however, an institution can’t just say “let’s increase financial aid.” It costs money - lots of money. Duke’s fundraising efforts have been solid and people like the Karsh’s have contributed significantly (they gave $50M I believe, although to international financial aid), but Duke still lags schools like Harvard and Stanford who basically have unlimited funds. It’s hard for Duke to compete for upper-middle class students with the richest institutions, but it’s still doing relatively well (particularly after the improved financial aid in 2007).</p>
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<p>There is no such stipulation - that’s a myth. James B Duke did say he wanted the Duke Endowment and Trinity College to serve people of the Carolinas, so the admissions office does give some extra consideration of residents of the state, but there is no percentage or quota that must be met.</p>
<p>Overall, though, I agree with your general post - I just wanted to highlight a couple points.</p>