<p>^^ I’m unaware of any tables that show the distribution of aid by amounts. Therefore, when a college claims that N% of its students get n-b aid, it’s hard to know for sure how much of it is going to low-income v. upper middle-income students. However, we do know (from the Common Data Set section H.2.j) the average amounts of n-b scholarship and grant awards. At Harvard for 2011-12, it was over $42K. At Princeton for 2012-13, it was almost $38K. Also, keep in mind that all the Ivies claim to be need-blind in admissions. So I don’t think the bulk of Ivy League n-b aid is being trickled out in small discounts to upper-middle-income (~$200K) families. </p>
<p>Still, a lower-income student can expect some culture shock at Ivy League and other expensive private schools. You won’t necessarily face blatant snobbery and in-your-face displays of wealth … but you will be surrounded by many smart, confident kids who come from money. So what? Just, suck it in, do your thing, and you’ll be fine.</p>