Any socio-econ affirmative action boost? Forum

[OldManWinter]

I am a first generation immigrant from Central Asia and though my parents work very hard, they do not make very much money. I was able to attend a T10 undergrad university with the help of a Pell Grant and very generous need-based aid.

I know that I am not a URM, but was wondering if there were any schools that practice affirmative action based upon socio-economic circumstances. I noticed that UC Berkeley's application asked for family income and highest education attained by parents and was hoping that it indicated that Berkeley considers socio-economic conditions as a part of their affirmative action calculation.

Any insight from the wider community?

[RPK34]

May make a small difference or give a slight boost, but it's not like undergrad where it can make a huge difference. A lot of schools will allow you to write an essay on overcoming economic or social hardships.

[whymeohgodno]

Maybe Berkeley since they have a truly holistic process.

[bdubs]

This is not an unusual situation for immigrants, I don't think that you will get a substantial boost.

Socio-economic boosts are more likely to go to traditionally socially disadvantaged groups. The idea is to encourage those who otherwise might not attend school to actually go.