<p>I actually think you are overrating the expensive prep schools. There’s a certain amount of “parents get what they pay for” - academic support, test prep, empasis on service, long, golden LoRs, etc. That’s not always as impressive as the self-starter kid who overcomes the limits of a lesser public school. Good chance your ACT and SAT scores will serve you well, considering the context in which you achieved them. </p>
<p>But, I hope you are focusing on “the rest of the story.” The Ivies review holistically- the substance of your activities in- and outside- the hs, what you accomplish, your impact and more. </p>
<p>One of the other issues that can crop up in a hs that doesn’t often send kids to top tier, is the LoRs. Of course, you want teachers whose comments will have some relevance to the major you indicate (eg, a science or math teacher, if you will be STEM.) But, you want to discreetly encourage them to write about your maturity, contributions, intellect, growth- not just a few lines about how you do your homework, smile, and are in some clubs.</p>