Questbridge Application Requirements

Hey everyone! I've recently heard about this program called Questbridge that connects low-income students to top colleges. What are the specific application requirements for Questbridge? How different is it from the usual application process for colleges?

Hello! Questbridge is a fantastic program that aims to help high-achieving, low-income students gain admission to top colleges. It's great that you're interested in learning more about it, as the Questbridge National College Match application process is somewhat different from the standard college application process. Here's a brief rundown of the application requirements:

1. Eligibility Criteria: Questbridge is designed for low-income students, so you must meet their financial eligibility requirements. They primarily consider household income, family size, and extenuating financial circumstances. While there isn't a firm income cutoff, most finalists have a household income of less than $65,000 for a family of four.

2. Academic Performance: The program targets academically gifted students. While there's no specific GPA or test score requirement, most successful applicants display strong academic achievements (high GPAs, challenging coursework, etc.).

3. Questbridge Application: You'll submit a separate application for the Questbridge National College Match, which includes biographical information, income/asset information, extracurriculars, short essays, and recommendation letters.

4. Rank Colleges: Once you're selected as a finalist, you'll have the opportunity to rank 8-12 of the partner colleges in order of preference. If matched, you'll be admitted with a full four-year scholarship.

5. College Supplements: If you're a finalist, you may need to submit a few supplemental materials, such as college-specific essays, depending on the school.

6. Match Scholarship Decision: In early December, you'll find out if you've been matched with one of your ranked colleges. If not, you can still use your Questbridge application to apply Regular Decision or Early Decision II to partner colleges.

One major difference from the traditional application process is that the Questbridge National College Match is binding, meaning you commit to attending the college you're matched with. Furthermore, you are restricted to applying only to the partner colleges during the Match process. Overall, it's an excellent opportunity for low-income students with strong academic records, but it's important to know that it is restrictive in that particular way.

Good luck with your application!