<p>While I am very much against AA, I must agree with lixuelai. I think people like you deserve to have a chance to attend a top-notch uni. I am sure colleges will understand your difficulties and be very impressed by your academic achievements.</p>
<p>Also consider that financial aid is not automatic. Don't assume that a college acceptance automatically means you will be offered a free full ride, even with your family's financial situation being extremely challenging.[ul][<em>]Are you applying for the Gate's scholarship?
[</em>]Are you looking at colleges (especially LACs) that may be looking to increase diversity and are willing to offer a super financial aid package?[/ul]</p>
<p>UW - super safety
UBC, I don't really know canadian schools, but probably safety
USC safety</p>
<p>cornell safety-match</p>
<p>Swarthmore, Stanford, Yale - I RARELY say this, but match. </p>
<p>Congrats, kid. You're a superb applicant.
Consider Princeton. Best financial aid in the Ivies. No one has to take loans.</p>