I think this is largely how it works, but it's not explicitly separated into two pots. Rather, things like legacy status and family donors are factors in a mult

I think this is largely how it works, but it's not explicitly separated into two pots. Rather, things like legacy status and family donors are factors in a multifaceted admissions process. Someone who donated twice as much might not have their kid get admitted if academics and test scores are bad, whereas someone who didn't donate as much might get in with good grades and test scores.