How important are legacy connections in boarding school admissions?

Legacy status is like sprinkles on a cupcake. Nice to have, but it won’t bake the cake for you. Some schools might give legacy applicants a slight edge, especially if the family has stayed involved and engaged. But don’t bank on it being your golden ticket. Most top-tier boarding schools care far more about who your child is now than where their great-uncle went 40 years ago. A strong application filled with character, curiosity, and initiative still carries the most weight. So yes, mention the legacy, but don’t let it do all the heavy lifting. Great-grandpa’s alumni pin won’t write your essays.