That 1% has advantages because they are often donors and alumni. And because the guidance counselors at select prep schools often have "ins" with admissions people. But that doesn't negate the fact that 2/3 of Princeton classes are now receiving financial aid. In other words, most people graduating from Ivy League schools in the 21st century are not rich. I am also wondering if that average family income at Harvard includes the billionaires, who would make everyone else seem wealthier. (By the way, I have an exceptionally wealthy friend with exceptionally smart and nice and talented kids and both children were not accepted by the Ivys. My son, who needed financial aid, and was no better qualified than these boys, was.) When you apply to the Ivy, you don't show financials until after you are accepted and commit. That said, if your name is Kennedy or Bush or Buffet, you have certain advantages....