Formal definition is a student at a college who has family ties to an alumni of that institution, with college admissions being in the field in which legacy preferences are most controversially used. (CNBC 9/8/17: Harvard incoming class 30% Legacy , The ND Observer 3/20/2015; Notre Dame incoming class 25% Legacy). Now let's weave sports into the mix, an alumni that donates > $XX,XXX ; so kid can be "on the team". It does exist. I asked, only because my son is not a stud & these kids add more competition to the matrix, especially if considering a walk-on spot. On another note, Legacy can be great if looking for scholarship $$ at some colleges. My younger son received a $40,000 award @ my Alma Mater, totally unexpected & not attached to grades, declared major or family income. Be sure to do your research everyone.