(Chicago Sun Times) — Hoping to portray themselves as more affordable and as better neighbors, private colleges across the country are sweetening financial-aid packages for students from their own back yards.
The latest and most prestigious to do so: Northwestern University.
By targeting local students in financial need, Northwestern is aiming to boost minority enrollment, strengthen local ties and stay competitive in the admissions race at a time when many private schools are increasing aid based on student merit instead of financial circumstances.