How much does this boost chances at Amherst?

padad
Wed, 13 Sep 2006 12:36:01 +0000

you ask to waive the application fee. that is how they know that you are from a “economic disadvantage” family.

write in your assay how you overcome your disadvantage. for example, you may have to get up in the middle of the night to study in a bathroom since you live in a confined space which precludes you from studying ealier in the day. (don’t use this example since it has been broadcasted by a PBS special on Amherst admission). you may write about how you may walk a long distance to your local library to get books. you may talk about contributing to your family income.

being from an economic disadvantage family will help greatly if your SAT score is below the average.