What’s it like being a QuestBridge Regular Decision Finalist?

For anyone who's been a finalist in QuestBridge Regular Decision, what was your experience like? Did being a finalist make a significant difference in your college application journey?

As a QuestBridge Regular Decision finalist, you're selected as part of a competitive group of high-achieving, low-income students. This status can indicate to colleges that you possess academic potential, resilience, and personal qualities that they desire in their incoming class.

One of the most significant advantages of being a QuestBridge Regular Decision finalist is the opportunity to apply to multiple colleges for free. This can mitigate some of the financial burdens associated with applying to multiple schools, which can accumulate quickly with application fees, score reporting fees, and other associated costs.

Another major benefit is that your QuestBridge application -- which you completed for the National College Match and isn't conventional like the Common or Coalition App -- will be reviewed by your regular decision colleges. It includes unique essays and a more detailed family information section, allowing you to share your story in a different way.

However, keep in mind that acceptance rates through QuestBridge Regular Decision aren't necessarily higher than the rates through regular decision for the broader applicant pool. While being a finalist can signify your stamina and academic achievements, it won't guarantee admission.

Lastly, not all partner colleges accept the QuestBridge application for Regular Decision. So if the colleges on your list don't accept it, you may have to complete a separate application for those schools, like the Common App or Coalition App, depending on their unique requirements.

In conclusion, while being a QuestBridge Regular Decision finalist can be advantageous, particularly in reducing application costs and showcasing your resilience and achievements, it doesn't assure acceptance into your chosen colleges. It should be considered a part of your overall strategy and application journey rather than the sole determiner of your college acceptance chances.