<p>I have read this entire thread and have found it incredibly interesting. I respect the OP for her care and concern for her friend and her friends son.
There is so much information to process in regard to this discussion. My own thoughts align most closely with Xiggi and Pizza Girls perspectives.
Given this students demographic he has to be across the board strong to be seriously considered at the most selective schools. His apparent weakness being his GPA and his lack of formidable EC’s. His essays will have to be outstanding and perhaps reflect insight in to a very unique and impressive element of who he is. His recommendations will need to be exceptionally strong as well.
A professional consultant would be advisable if this is what this student and his family want for him.
His essays and recs need to be strong for consideration in all top privates and top publics.
I don’t recall any one making reference here to what most admission committees of the most selective schools think of students with GPA’s on the low side based on their criteria and higher standardized test scores. Especially coming from this students demographic. His essays and recs will have to overcome that.
If the student and his family are looking for acceptances into a top 20 they should seek competent professional help.</p>