<p>This is a really loaded question. I’ll do my best to address one point, and I am sure others will also help chime in.</p>
<p>The income level of the students applying to schools (that is what you really are asking, right? Does it matter if I am poor, middle class, or wealthy?) “shouldn’t” matter in the eyes of an admissions officer. Especially if the intellectual ability and future potential of the student are clearly marked.</p>
<p>If the poor student from the poor school has less extracurriculars, is that time replaced with work? If so, that counts. If not, why not?</p>
<p>As you should know, the admissions process should take a lot of factors into consideration. The amount of factors depends on the school. But academic ability, test scores, letters of rec, clearly marked goals and proof of future potential are positive regardless of financial situation.</p>
<p>Wealthier students tend to have it easier because the things they are able to do (better, higher paid teachers, tutors, extra currics because of no work requirements, summer enrichment programs, trainers, healthier foods, educated parents) lend themselves towards college acceptance. </p>
<p>But the smartest kid at the poorest school is still made an example of as a scholarship winner and accepted student.</p>
<p>If you are the valed or salud at a poor school, that speaks to your character, work ethic, and drive more than anything else, because you excelled despite the social stigma that comes from academic intelligence.</p>
<p>I don’t think that answers your question, because it is a hard question to answer, but I hope I introduced a way of thinking.</p>