I'm a non-finalist for QuestBridge and I'm planning to apply regular decision to a few partner schools. Does anyone have tips or advice on how to approach this? Will it affect my chances?
Applying as a Non-Finalist to QuestBridge partner schools through Regular Decision will not materially impact your chances of admission negatively. The reason is that these schools maintain a holistic approach when assessing candidates, exploring different elements beyond your QuestBridge Finalist status.
However, you must remember that you are applying to very selective schools, and the Regular Decision pool will likely be more competitive. You should take this opportunity to refine your application materials and focus on your essays, so they convey your personality, experiences, and aspirations.
Do not forget to highlight your strengths, achievements, and any improvements you have made since the application for the QuestBridge National College Match. Also, be sure to reaffirm your interest in the school by discussing specific courses, professors, or extracurricular activities you'd like to take up.
Keep in mind that you can still use your QuestBridge application for Regular Decision entry. Some schools will allow you to use your QuestBridge application, while others might ask you to complete their application. In either case, you should be sure to follow each school’s specific instructions.
Lastly, understand every college's financial aid policies. Not all partner schools guarantee to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need if you apply Regular Decision. If financial aid is crucial for you, double-check each school's policy.
Good luck with your applications, and remember, not being a QuestBridge Finalist doesn't mean you're not a strong applicant!
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