"Merit" is sometimes an unfortunate word in this context, as it has a degree of connotation of moral judgement, like that anybody who was not admitted didn't "deserve" admission."

Merit in this context is simply a euphemism for ability. How well did the student do on test scores or taking part in extracurricular work. It has no connotation about judgment, which, incidentally, has no central E in American English. "Judgement" is Commonwealth, though, as with "grey," it's in common enough use that it isn't flagged anymore.

I'm of mixed feelings in setting lower standards for people who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, that being the topiic of thiis column, but in the end I come down on the side of doing it. Because any kid who manages to rrxcel academically despite uh socioeconomic disadvantages is likelier to have the motivation to grow in college and deserves admission more than someone who excelled a little more but came from a privileged background.