I know 2 instances where $10 mil didn't get acceptance into Harvard. And the kids were decent, not stellar, but decent in grades.

But they are getting donations in the hundreds of millions, so it is all relative.

Aren't we on this forum because our kids have great scores and grades? And they can get some great options for college? If some rich kid got in because family donated 400 mil for a new research center, I am glad because there is a new research center for my kid at her school. Isn't that why Duke is taking the money. To be a top college you need whatever money you can generate. If your alumni isn't giving, take it from the front end.