questbridge scholarship essay examples

College Admissions

Quest scholarship college essay example – questbridge program.

• The Albert Team
• Last Updated On: March 1, 2022

This is a college essay submitted by a student who now attends Northwestern University. This student is a Quest Scholar at Northwestern. The student was awarded with a full-ride scholarship. As you read this Quest Scholarship college essay example, think about your own personal experiences and what you could write about if you are eligible for the scholarship. You can learn more about the Quest Scholarship here .

This is a solid personal essay for several reasons:

• The opening paragraph frames the story and presents to the reader a frustrating situation with his younger brother that leads the reader into the second paragraph with an anticipated even more acutely personal insight into this student’s life. A potentially stronger opening would have been starting with his mother’s condition and remaining focused with the main topic as this opening paragraph is a bit of a tangent in the grand scheme of things.
• The second paragraph demonstrates the reader’s understanding of his mother’s condition. It paints a vivid picture with the reader of the condition, demonstrating to an admissions counselor that not only has this student had to overcome extenuating circumstances, but also that he fully understands the nature of his mother’s condition.
• The third paragraph digs deep as the student reflects on what he has learned from watching his mother suffer the effects of MS through the years. He closes the paragraph strongly with a takeaway of what he has learned to value the most from watching his mother endure her MS condition through the years.
• Finally, the student concludes by wrapping the essay together nicely. The reader finishes reading the essay with a comprehensive understanding of the student’s life experience, how he has learned from this experience, and a bigger picture understanding of the human condition. This is vital. Strong admissions essays often have a message that provide admissions officers with insights of the student’s understanding of the human condition. These essays are often acutely personal and feature an overall theme—in this case, hardship and how the student came to terms with it.

Throughout my life I have encountered many circumstances that have shaped me into the person I am today. I started life in a small house outside of Mackinaw, Illinois. I lived in that house for eleven years, and while I was there I became the oldest of four children. That in itself has been an experience, teaching me a lot about being an example and impacting my views on responsibility. I have a brother who, quite frankly, is the worst behaved kid I know. He lies, steals, and misbehaves compulsively. Academically he is not much better. He was held back in first grade due to a refusal to do homework, and has barely scraped by ever since, consistently getting D’s and F’s. Miraculously, he is now in eighth grade, but he still is not doing much better academically or behaviorally. He is actually very smart; he just refuses to do work which is why he fails. At home he fights with my younger brother and sister and pushes my patience to its limits constantly. Through it all there is a silver lining. He has taught me tolerance and patience. I have learned to deal with other people and annoyances through my experiences with Brock, and find that I am generally harder to anger than others. The lessons in patience that I have learned from Brock have helped me a lot in working with others, and have contributed greatly to my successes in academics, but no single person or experience has impacted my outlook on life as much as my Mom.

Right around my tenth year, when my parents started looking into building a house in the country so my dad could have a shed to work on tractors in, my mom started having problems with her vision. It was often blurry, and she frequently suffered bouts of double vision. She went to several doctors, and numerous specialists, seeking a diagnosis. Eventually one came. Multiple Sclerosis. Abbreviated as MS, multiple sclerosis is ravaging disease affecting the nervous system. MS is caused when the myelin sheaths of nerve axons in the brain and spinal cord are damaged, causing scar tissue to form. The scar tissue hinders neural impulses, thus interfering with commands sent from the brain to motor nerves throughout the body. Eventually, problems with movement and balance develop. The progression of the disease is different for each patient and sometimes leads to an early death, but almost always leads to major disabilities.

Since her diagnosis, my mom’s condition has only worsened. Her double vision went away after a few months and has not returned since, but other complications have risen. Since then, little by little, I have watched my mom lose much of her ability to walk. Today at the age of forty, she walks almost everywhere with a cane. She has been told by her doctor not to drive because of slowed reaction times. Any time we go somewhere where there will be a lot of walking, she uses a wheelchair. Essentially, MS has forced my mom to age at a much greater pace than any human should have to endure. Remarkably though, in these eight years, I have never once heard her complain. Never once has she shown us any sign of self-pity. Instead, she has remained strong, accepting what fate has dealt her. In my parents’ room, she keeps a saying in a picture frame. It reads, “What is, is actual. What might be, simply is not. I must not therefore query God as though he has robbed me of things that are not.” It took me a while to understand exactly what it meant, but once I did I realized that my mom lives her life largely by the quote’s meaning. She realizes that she has MS, and nothing is going to change that, and so she accepts it and keeps going. It takes a special kind of person to do that; I do not think that many people would deal with it as well as my mom has.

Through my mom’s actions, she has taught me that no problem that I could possibly have merits complaint, because, truthfully, nobody cares. Everybody has problems in life, and no amount of complaining will ever change that. If everyone was like my mom I sincerely believe this world would be a better place. Aside from her refusal to complain, I have gained something else from my mom’s attitude. She has taught me the value of our talents and abilities, and that they should be used to their fullest while we possess them. She has inspired me to do my best in everything, and because of that I have been very successful. I love my mom for what she has been through and what she has taught me.

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The Questbridge application lets you show the admissions office a more holistic view of who you are. Students are often not used to talking about themselves in this way, and it can lead to some overthinking. In addition to this resource, you can find a lot of information about how to complete the application on the Questbridge website .

Questbridge Short Answers Part I

Tell us about one of your proudest achievements or moments and what it says about you.

Start with creating a timeline of important moments in your life that have shaped the way you see the world. The proudest achievements in your life may not always be the things that the outside observer may deem the most impressive, like winning a competition or earning the highest grade. Sometimes, it can be an acknowledgment that comes at the right time,  a sudden change in perspective, or supporting someone else in their achievement.

If you could meet a character from a book or a historical figure, who would it be and what would you ask them?

If you’re struggling to get started on this essay question, start with a brainstorm of intellectual questions that you find interesting. What are the things you read about for fun, or that send you down a youtube hole? Based on those topics, you can backward map the characters or historical figures that would allow you to dive into this subject area.

Mistakes to avoid in Part I…

• Trying to impress the reader. If you’re trying to think which of your achievements sound fanciest or which book will make you appear intelligent, your responses won’t be authentic, and it will show.
• Corny response.  Corny responses are not only inauthentic, they are also predictable and utilize common language. Make sure that each aspect of your application can pass the “best friend test.” If you dropped your essay and it was missing the name, would your best friend know it was yours?

What success looks like in Part I…

• It’s personal.  Each essay feels true and honest to you.
• It’s focused and concise. It doesn’t wander through multiple points and then end abruptly. Instead, it focuses on one main takeaway, and effectively conveys what it needs to.
• It’s thoughtful. It doesn’t just answer the question, but instead adds something insightful and interesting to the application as a whole.

Questbridge Short Answers Part II

What is your favorite subject to study, and why?

Dive into the subject that you feel most excited about, be honest! The most important part of this question is the “ why. ” Don’t just describe all of the things that you learn in world history. Instead, the reader should be able to understand why this of all of the other things you could be interested in really connects with you. Does it relate to a cause that you’re really passionate about? Is there something in your past that you’ve been trying to better understand through the study of this subject?

What are your favorite books and/or movies? There’s no trick here. Don’t feel that you need to impress others with your literary choices. The best response is one that speaks to who you are and your interests.

What is your favorite source of inspiration? Don’t feel the pressure to go grandiose here. Just speak honestly to what inspires you. Maybe it’s understanding yourself, time in nature, being able to connect with a loved one, or the thrill of solving a complex math problem.

How do you spend a typical weekend? Your response should balance relaxation and productivity. For example, perhaps you enjoy playing video games and hanging out with friends, and maybe you have a job or volunteer at your church. All of those things should be included. Don’t succumb to the pressure to sound like a robot who hates fun here.

What is the compliment that you have been paid that you are most proud of? Who gave you the compliment? Here, you should focus on describing concisely why this compliment was so meaningful to you.

After a challenging experience, how do you rejuvenate? Again, pretty straightforward.  Talk through what you do and why it’s important to you.

What would you contribute to your future college campus community? This is one that students often fumble by making it too generic. Take some time to think through all of your strengths and assets. If you’re struggling, ask s0meone who knows you well to help you with the list. Focus on one asset that you have evidence to back up so that you can show instead of telling. Also, try something a little different. For example, maybe you’re someone who loves having deep conversations into the early morning, or you’re always the person friends call when they need something specific done. The more honest the description is to you, the more compelling the essay.

Mistakes to avoid in Part II…

• Redundancy- It’s important to add something new to your application with every essay. Each essay should be like a puzzle piece creating a full picture of who you are.
• Too Generic- With short answers like this, it’s easy to stay shallow because there’s not enough space to dive deep. Push yourself to add value in a short period of time.

What success looks like in Part II…

• Punchy.  These are super short, so know what you want to convey and get to the point quickly.
• Relatable.  These short essays are super short. The point of them is to shine a spotlight on who you are outside of the classroom. This is a great opportunity to be relatable and likable. By the end of these essays, the admissions office should get a good idea of who you are and how you’d fit in on their campus. They should be excited about your contribution to their campus.

Essay 1 (800-word limit)

We are interested in learning more about you and the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations, and accomplished your academic successes. Please describe the factors and challenges that have most shaped your personal life and aspirations. How have these factors helped you to grow?

This is another question where the timeline exercise would be helpful: identify the events in your life that have shaped the way you view the world and have served as turning points. Don’t be afraid to be honest and vulnerable with your response. Remember that you are not the events and obstacles that you’ve experienced—instead, you are the interpretation and responses to those events.

Mistakes to avoid on Essay 1…

• Touching on too many topics.  Narrow your entire essay down to one sentence that you’re trying to convey. Your entire essay should be pieces of evidence that hold that one sentence up. If you touch on too many points, the essay will stay too superficial and it will be confusing for the reader.
• Writing an autobiography.  This is another common mistake that students make. You don’t want to touch on everything that has happened in your life, just the most poignant events.
• Writing the essay in chronological order. Don’t feel the need to start from the beginning of the story and build-up to the climax; that may lead you to focus too much on the event and not enough on the learning. Instead, try starting with the climax and filling in the necessary context later.

What success looks like on Essay 2…

• Vulnerability. This essay should be somewhat uncomfortable to share with others—it should be that personal.
• Highlighting your personal growth.  Make sure to focus more on your growth than the event itself. The reader wants to know who you are now and what has contributed to that.
• Grabbing your reader in the first paragraph.  The very first paragraph should be compelling and draw the reader into your essay. Which is why I recommend starting with the climax. Think about an episode of Law and Order . It doesn’t start with Detective Stabler waking up and making his morning coffee. It starts with a crime being committed, out of context. The remainder of the episode helps put the pieces together to create the full picture. You can format your essay in a similar way.

Questbridge Essay 2 (800-word limit)

Please write on ONE of the following topics: Option 1: Tell us about a concept, theory, or topic you have explored simply because it sparked your intellectual curiosity. Why do you find it intriguing? How do you want to explore it further? Option 2: Describe an experience that caused you to change your perspective and/or opinion. Option 3: What do you admire most about your community? What would you improve?

You’ll notice that the previous essay looks to understand how you interpret your past, your resiliency, and your grit. This essay wants to know how you interact with the world around you. With these prompts, there’s no secret to which one admissions offices will prefer. Select the option you feel most excited to write about and make sure that you’re authentic in your response.

Mistakes to avoid on Essay 2…

• Redundancy. Make sure that you’re not restating anything that you’ve already touched on during your application. Remember, every component of the application is another piece of the puzzle. If you continue bringing the same piece in, again and again, its a missed opportunity to see the full picture.
• Getting it over with.  You’re in the final stretch, and it can be easy to just write something for the sake of finishing things up. Remember that each essay should be personal and help the reader understand who you are. Every component is important.
• Not enough time on the why.  It’s easy to revert to the way you would write a school paper with this question. This is not the space to convince the reader of something or spend too much time describing the theory, experience, or community. What the reader finds compelling is why this resonates with you.

What success looks like…

• Displaying your intellectual curiosity.  The reader wants to know what you’re interested in, how you view the world,  and what you’ve done already to engage with these topics.
• Engagement with the world. The reader wants to better understand how you engage the world and what lessons you take from your surroundings.

In general, it’s important that you complete your essays early enough to receive feedback on your responses and complete multiple drafts. Find the people who will be honest with you, and aren’t afraid to tell you if you need to start over. Get multiple perspectives and then take what you find valuable.

Finally, the college and scholarship application process can be a difficult one. It’s important to know that you are talented and have a lot to offer whatever university you end up attending. As long as you’re putting your best foot forward and portray your most authentic self, you will end up where you’re meant to be. Take a deep breath, you’ve got this!

The Orange Grove

Questbridge Scholarship Guide: Navigating the Application Process

The QuestBridge Scholarship is a nationally recognized program that plays a pivotal role in helping high-achieving, low-income students gain access to some of the nation’s most prestigious colleges and universities with full four-year scholarships. It bridges the gap between talented students and leading institutions of higher education, presenting opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. The program operates under the National College Match, a specialized college admission process that facilitates this connection.

Understanding the inner workings of the QuestBridge program is crucial for applicants. To be eligible, students must exhibit a high level of academic excellence and come from households with limited financial resources. The application process is thorough, requiring detailed information on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal background. Students who successfully navigate this process and match with a college partner can secure a comprehensive financial aid package that covers tuition, room and board, books, and other expenses for four years.

Key Takeaways

• QuestBridge provides full scholarships to high-achieving, low-income students.
• Applicants must go through an extensive admission process for the National College Match.
• Successful candidates receive comprehensive financial aid for four years at top colleges.

What Is QuestBridge?

QuestBridge is a national nonprofit that connects exceptionally talented students from low-income backgrounds with leading institutions of higher education and additional opportunities.

Origins and Mission

QuestBridge began with a clear goal: to increase the number of talented low-income students attending the nation’s best universities. It seeks to level the educational playing field by providing a bridge between these students and institutions looking for diverse and academically strong cohorts.

The QuestBridge Community

The QuestBridge community is a robust national network of students, educators, and professionals committed to expanding access to higher education. It not only includes the applicants but also alumni and university representatives. The community provides various resources and opportunities for education and professional development, thereby fostering a support system that goes beyond college admission.

Understanding the National College Match

The National College Match is a pivotal opportunity that connects high-achieving, low-income students with leading institutions of higher education. It is a pathway to secure a full four-year scholarship covering the entire cost of attendance.

National College Match Basics

The National College Match is a distinguished admission and scholarship process. High school seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic ability despite financial challenges are eligible to apply. Those selected as finalists have the potential to receive a full scholarship to one of the QuestBridge college partners, which are among the nation’s best colleges and universities.

How the Match Works

Students start by submitting a detailed application to QuestBridge, which includes essays, test scores, and letters of recommendation. Finalists are then chosen based on their academic excellence and financial need. These finalists rank their preferred QuestBridge college partners. If a student is successfully matched, they are admitted early to the highest-ranked college on their list that also wishes to admit them, resulting in a binding commitment. The Match Scholarship is then awarded, which provides not just tuition, but also includes room and board, books and supplies, and sometimes even travel expenses.

Match Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the Match Scholarship benefit greatly. They receive a full four-year scholarship worth over $200,000, on average, which alleviates the financial burden of higher education. The scholarship is funded through a combination of the college partners’ own resources, as well as state and federal aid. It ensures that students can focus on their studies without worrying about financial constraints.

Eligibility Requirements

The QuestBridge Scholarship targets high-achieving high school seniors who demonstrate significant financial need. Eligibility hinges on academic and financial qualifications, each with specific criteria that applicants must meet.

Academic Achievement

Applicants should exhibit outstanding academic prowess , typically reflected in high grades and test scores. They are often within the top percentile of their class and demonstrate proficiency across a rigorous curriculum. Involvement in advanced placement or honors courses can corroborate their academic achievement and readiness for college-level work.

Financial Qualifications

To qualify for the QuestBridge Scholarship, students must come from low-income households. The financial threshold is strict, as the scholarship aims to assist those with considerable financial need . Evidence of this need is typically required through documentation during the application process.

It’s important for prospective applicants to review the detailed financial criteria provided by QuestBridge’s National College Match to ensure they fit the scholarship’s financial eligibility requirements.

The Application Process

QuestBridge’s scholarship application process is a critical pathway for high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds to gain access to prestigious college education. Detailed attention to application components and an understanding of the selection criteria can significantly impact an applicant’s success.

How to Apply

To commence the QuestBridge scholarship application, students must first complete the free, online National College Match application. This serves as a gateway for potential full four-year scholarships to top colleges for those selected as finalists. The application is available on the QuestBridge website and must be submitted by the specified deadline.

Important Components of the Application

The application includes several critical components that applicants need to submit:

• High School Transcript: An official transcript detailing the student’s academic performance.
• Standardized Test Scores: Reports of ACT or SAT scores, if available.
• School Report: A statement from the applicant’s high school with specific information about academic performance.
• Recommendation Letters: Typically, two letters of recommendation from teachers are required.
• Essays: One or two essays , and additional short answers, to provide personal insights and self-expression of the applicant.

Applicants need to ensure that all parts of their application are complete and reflect their academic potential as well as personal qualities.

Selection Criteria

The selection process is multifaceted, with several criteria considered:

• Academic achievement, as demonstrated by GPA, class rank, and the rigor of courses taken in the context of the student’s high school.
• Standardized test scores (ACT/SAT), if available, are reviewed, but recent application cycles have adapted policies to accommodate test-optional applicants.
• The quality and thoughtfulness evident in the applicant’s essays and short answers.
• Additional factors like extracurricular accomplishments, letters of recommendation , and the overall strength of the school report.

Students applying for the QuestBridge National College Match are not just evaluated on their academic merits but also on their personal stories and potential to succeed in a college environment.

QuestBridge Scholarships and Financial Aid

QuestBridge provides a pathway for high-achieving, low-income students to access substantial financial aid packages, enabling them to attend some of the nation’s top colleges. These scholarships cover not just tuition but also additional costs, reducing the financial burden on students and families.

Understanding Financial Aid Packages

Financial aid packages awarded to QuestBridge Scholars encompass various elements that collectively contribute to covering the Cost of Attendance (COA) . A standard package includes:

• Grants and Scholarships: Funds that do not require repayment, like the Pell Grants, which can go up to $6,495 .
• Work-Study: An opportunity for students to work part-time while attending school to earn money for their expenses.
• Student Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid over time with interest, although this may vary based on the college’s financial aid policy.

Typically, these aid packages aim to eliminate the need for student loans, emphasizing grants and scholarships, thereby minimizing the debt burden on students post-graduation.

Cost of Attendance Breakdown

The Cost of Attendance includes:

• Tuition and Fees: The primary educational costs covered in full for QuestBridge Scholarship recipients.
• Books and Supplies: An allowance for textbooks and other course materials.
• Room and Board: Costs associated with housing and meals, whether on-campus or comparable living arrangements.
• Personal Expenses: Miscellaneous costs, such as clothing and healthcare.
• Travel: Expenses for traveling to and from college, including travel allowances during school breaks.

QuestBridge’s financial aid packages cover these expenses without requiring a parental contribution, making it a full four-year scholarship valued at over $200,000 and making higher education accessible and affordable for awarded students.

Preparing for College Admission

When students transition from high school to college, their admission application becomes a pivotal document that showcases their academic capabilities and personal strengths. Proper preparation in taking standardized tests, crafting a proficient college essay, and building a comprehensive high school portfolio are essential steps towards a successful admission process.

Standardized Testing Strategies

Standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT are a significant component of the college application. Students should begin their preparation early, focusing on areas of weakness and taking practice tests to improve. Consistency and persistence in test preparation can lead to improved scores. The QuestBridge guide emphasizes the importance of taking the most challenging courses available, including AP or IB programs, to prepare for these exams.

Crafting Your College Essay

A college essay provides a platform for students to express their unique stories and personalities beyond their high school transcript. Essays should be meticulously edited , with attention to structure and content. For a stronger impact, essays should feature concrete examples of personal growth and achievements. Resources such as the Ultimate QuestBridge Scholarship Guide can offer insights into what makes a compelling narrative for your application.

Building a Strong High School Portfolio

The high school portfolio is a comprehensive display of a student’s academic and extracurricular accomplishments. The contents typically include the high school transcript, displaying consistent academic rigor, and any AP or IB test scores. Extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service projects are also critical, displaying a well-rounded character and commitment to civic responsibility. For detailed tips and checklists, potential applicants can refer to the Senior Year Checklist provided by QuestBridge.

Partner Colleges and Universities

QuestBridge collaborates with prestigious colleges and universities across the nation, providing pathways for talented students to access top-tier education. These institutions partner with QuestBridge to facilitate college admissions for deserving scholars.

Selecting College Partners

QuestBridge’s college partners are selected based on their commitment to providing excellent educational opportunities to high-achieving, low-income students. Institutions like MIT , Princeton , Stanford , and Yale are among the renowned universities that work with QuestBridge to foster a diverse and inclusive campus environment.

Benefits of Partner Institutions

College partners offer substantial benefits to QuestBridge scholars. These can be comprehensive scholarships that cover tuition, room and board, books, and supplies. By partnering with QuestBridge, these colleges and universities demonstrate their dedication not only to academic excellence but also to making education accessible. QuestBridge scholars accepted to partner schools like the University of Virginia or Vanderbilt University can expect robust support systems and a campus culture geared toward their success.

QuestBridge Regular Decision

QuestBridge Regular Decision offers a significant opportunity for students who did not match during the National College Match process to apply to prestigious colleges without application fees. Here, they stand a chance to gain admission in a non-binding round, expanding their college options.

How Regular Decision Differs from the Match

Regular Decision is distinct from the National College Match in that it is non-binding, which means students have until the standard May 1st decision deadline to select their school of choice after receiving their offers. Unlike the Match process, which commits students to attend the college they match with, Regular Decision gives students the flexibility to compare financial aid packages from multiple colleges.

One should note that during the Match, students rank colleges and may receive a full four-year scholarship to the highest-ranked college that selects them. In contrast, the Regular Decision option does not necessarily come with a guaranteed scholarship, although students admitted through QuestBridge Regular Decision often receive substantial financial aid packages directly from the participating colleges.

Applying through Regular Decision

The process to apply through QuestBridge Regular Decision is straightforward:

• Finalists from the National College Match who did not match can opt for Regular Decision by sending their QuestBridge application to any of the partner colleges.
• No additional application fees are required, but students must adhere to each college’s application deadlines and may need to submit supplementary materials directly to the colleges.

It is important for applicants to remember that each participating college may have different requirements for their Regular Decision process. They should refer to the individual college partners with QuestBridge for more specifics. Applicants should also consider submitting any required financial aid documentation, like the CSS Profile or FAFSA, to remain eligible for financial aid considerations.

Post-Acceptance Opportunities

After gaining acceptance through the QuestBridge National College Match, scholars can look forward to a wealth of resources and opportunities designed to support both their academic journey and career aspirations. QuestBridge provides a robust alumni network and a suite of career-oriented resources to ensure that scholars continue to thrive beyond their undergraduate experience.

QuestBridge Alumni Network

The QuestBridge Alumni Network is a major asset, fostering a diverse community of like-minded individuals who share a common background of academic excellence and determination. Alumni can collaborate, support each other, and access unique opportunities for lifelong personal and professional growth.

• Connections: Members have the opportunity to connect with thousands of peers and professionals across various fields, facilitating networking and mentorship.
• Events: Alumni are encouraged to participate in reunions, conferences, and other events that enhance their bond and afford them further opportunities for development.

Career and Internship Resources

QuestBridge extends a variety of resources aimed at propelling scholars into successful careers:

• Internship Programs: Scholarly candidates gain access to exclusive internship placements that can pave the way for promising career paths in an array of industries.
• Career Tools: The program offers personalized career advising, resume workshops, and job search tools to ensure scholars are well-prepared for the professional world. These resources equip students with the necessary skills to excel in competitive job markets.
• Professional Partnerships: QuestBridge collaborates with numerous organizations and businesses to secure internships and job opportunities that align with scholars’ ambitions and areas of study.

Through these post-acceptance opportunities , QuestBridge scholars are well-equipped to transition from high academic achievers to influential professionals, reinforcing the program’s commitment to bridging the gap between talent and opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about the QuestBridge National College Match program, providing clarity on its workings, application prerequisites, eligibility criteria, important deadlines, competitiveness, and the advantages of being a QuestBridge scholar.

How does the QuestBridge National College Match program work?

The QuestBridge National College Match program is designed to connect high-achieving, low-income high school seniors with full four-year scholarships to top colleges. Applicants who are selected as finalists can be “matched” with a QuestBridge college partner, where their full cost of attendance is covered by the scholarship.

What are the application requirements for QuestBridge scholarships?

Applicants must submit a detailed QuestBridge application , which includes academic and financial information, essays, and teacher recommendations. Scholarship seekers should demonstrate a high level of academic achievement and leadership potential.

What is the income eligibility criteria for the QuestBridge scholarship?

Income eligibility for the QuestBridge scholarship is generally focused on students from households earning less than $65,000 annually for a typical family of four, with minimal assets. Specific circumstances for each family are taken into account, considering factors like family size and additional financial responsibilities.

What is the deadline for submitting a QuestBridge scholarship application?

Deadlines for the QuestBridge scholarship application typically fall in late September. However, it’s crucial to check the QuestBridge website or directly with the program for the most current information, as dates may vary slightly each year.

How competitive is the QuestBridge scholarship selection process?

The QuestBridge scholarship is notably competitive due to its significant benefits and the large number of applicants it attracts. It seeks students who have excelled academically in spite of economic challenges.

What are the benefits of being selected for a QuestBridge scholarship?

Selected QuestBridge scholars receive a full scholarship that includes tuition, room and board, books and supplies, and travel expenses, which significantly alleviates the financial burden of higher education. Additionally, becoming a QuestBridge scholar opens doors to a network of peers and alumni, along with ongoing opportunities and support.

Helpful Resources

Navigating the scholarship landscape can often be overwhelming, but there's no need to go through it alone. Scholarship Owl offers a supportive platform that can help simplify your search by matching you with scholarships suited to your unique situation. By consolidating numerous scholarship opportunities into one place, it provides a significant time-saving benefit, allowing you to focus more on your studies and less on the search. If you're looking to streamline the scholarship application process, Scholarship Owl may be a valuable tool in your educational journey.

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An Introduction to QuestBridge

• Sasha Chada
• December 30, 2021

Table of Contents

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We’ve discussed financial aid and scholarships before, but in this article, we want to highlight a specific opportunity for high-achieving students. QuestBridge is an organization dedicated to helping high achieving but financially disadvantaged students apply to and pay for college, and awards a number of large scholarships each year to serve this goal.

In this article, we’ll break down what QuestBridge is, whether it’s right for you, and how to apply for it. While QuestBridge isn’t right for every student, it can be an amazing resource for some. Let’s get started!

What is QuestBridge?

Founded in 1987, QuestBridge seeks to match high-achieving students with top colleges. The students they work with come from underprivileged backgrounds, and the organization awards a large number of generous scholarships. These scholarships pay for the full cost of tuition and help with other costs. Students are sometimes expected to participate in work-study programs as part of these programs.

QuestBridge originally only partnered with Stanford, and they are still based in Palo Altos in California. Now, however, they have 45 college partners , which comprise many of the country’s top research universities and liberal arts colleges.

Students apply for the program, and as part of this created a ranked list of up to 12 schools they wish to apply to. Qualified students are selected as finalists, and these students have their QuestBridge application sent directly to the schools they ranked as part of their application. Students who match with a school through this process are awarded scholarships. Matching with a school through QuestBridge is usually binding.

Students who do not match in the initial round are allowed to submit their QuestBridge application to other partner schools in the Regular Decision round of admissions. While getting admitted this way does not award a scholarship through QuestBridge, many of these schools offer large financial aid packages, and all application fees are waived for QuestBridge students.

Who Qualifies for QuestBridge?

QuestBridge applicants are evaluated holistically; they have no hard cutoffs for grades, test scores, or financial circumstances. That said, they do have recommended benchmarks for applicants, both academic and financial. These are:

• Grades. Students are expected to have mostly As, with only a few Bs. They are also expected to have taken the most difficult classes available to them; AP, IB, or Honors.
• Class rank. Students should be in the top 5-10% of their class.
• Test scores. While these are not strictly required, students are expected to have test scores to meet the requirements of the colleges they apply to; this depends on schools’ own test optional policies. Scores should be 1260+ for SAT, and 27+ for ACT.
• Household income. The total income of the student’s household should be under $65,000. Students with unique financial circumstances can appeal to say why they deserve consideration.
• Assets. As with income, student’s households are expected to have minimal assets (such as investments or real estate).
• Extracurriculars. Students should be active and involved in activities outside of school. Students who need to work to support their family, or who need to take on responsibilities within the home have these counted.
• Honors. Students should have examples of their accomplishments.
• Character. Students should display leadership, a love of learning and academics, and a drive to accomplish great things.

This seems like a lot, but what QuestBridge is looking for is the same thing as top colleges . They want to make sure the students that are accepted as finalists will be able to succeed at the country’s top schools, and these metrics are seen as the best indicators for future success. The financial criteria are meant to ensure that QuestBridge’s resources go to the students who need them the most.

If you are a high achieving student from a disadvantaged academic background, we encourage you to apply to QuestBridge. The program is meant to help you achieve, and they are always looking for great students. 

How to Apply to QuestBridge

Applications for QuestBridge are submitted online and are due in September. This is far in advance of any college application deadlines.

QuestBridge applications require the following components:

• Basic information. This includes demographic, financial, and academic; everything you have to fill out on the Common App.
• Writing. You need to answer two essay questions, and some short answers.
• Recommendations. You will need two letters of recommendation from teachers.
• School info. Your counselor needs to submit a school report. They may also submit a school profile; this part is optional but still recommended.
• Transcripts. You need to submit current official transcripts from your high school.
• Test reports. If you report test scores, you also need to submit score reports.
• College specific information. Each college you apply to using QuestBridge has their own requirements, including additional essays.

The timeline for this alters slightly every year but follows the same general pattern. Applications open in late summer and are due in September. You are not able to edit or update your application after it is submitted. You use the same application for all schools; if you are not admitted into one of your initial ranked schools, you reuse the same application to apply to QuestBridge partner schools’ regular decisions.

QuestBridge Essays

QuestBridge asks for two essays . The prompts are: 

We are interested in learning more about you and the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations, and accomplished your academic successes. Please describe the factors and challenges that have most shaped your personal life and aspirations. How have these factors helped you to grow?

You will need to choose one of the following topics to expand upon:

Option 1: Tell us about a concept, theory, or topic you have explored simply because it sparked your intellectual curiosity. Why do you find it intriguing? How do you want to further explore it?

Option 2: Describe an experience that caused you to change your perspective and/or opinion.

Option 3: What do you admire most about your community? What would you improve?

The first of these is quite similar to the Common App personal statement, and any essay you write for QuestBridge will be easily editable to fit the Common App. We recommend writing the QuestBridge essay first, as it is easier to cut material out than to add material in. The goal of this question is to better understand you as a student and candidate and to see how your background and experiences have shaped you.

The second question gives you more options, and the prompt you answer should be the one that best allows you to show off your potential. These essays are a place for you to demonstrate your strengths and expand on other parts of your application. This prompt especially allows you to delve into one of your extracurricular activities, and explore its impact on you in more detail.

The supplemental essays colleges request through Questbridge are often different from the standard ones they ask for, and in some cases don’t exist at all. Make sure to check the requirements of each school you apply to carefully.

Final Thoughts

While it is difficult to find data on whether QuestBridge increases your chances of admissions, it does greatly increase your odds of receiving a valuable scholarship opportunity. Students who match with a school through QuestBridge are awarded four years of tuition to one of the country’s top institutions. This alone is enough to make the application worth pursuing. 

If you are eager to maximize your own chances of scholarships but do not qualify for QuestBridge, consider applying to our Pro Bono program . There are many ways to improve your chances of receiving college scholarships, and we are always happy to advise students.

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How to Start a Scholarship Essay (With Examples)

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

As an admissions officer, I reviewed thousands of essays for students seeking admission and scholarships. The essay is one of the most important parts of the scholarship application process–a strong essay can go a long way. However, with so much competition, it is important for your scholarship essay to stand out. That’s why it’s important for you to start a scholarship essay off right!

There are some very simple things that you can do to ensure that your essay is engaging from the very first sentence. In fact, beginning your essay with an exciting opening is one of the most important things you can do, because it will immediately distinguish your essay from the others. 

Keep on reading to learn more about how you can nail the very first sentence and start your essay off right!

Engage the reader with the first sentence

No matter what type of essay you are writing, you will want to ensure that the very first line grabs the attention of the reader. One of the biggest mistakes that students make when starting their essay is simply restating the prompt. This is bland and boring. 

Now, you might be wondering, “how do I engage the reader with the very first line of my essay?”. The good news is that there are several ways that you can do this that are very simple to do. 

Related:  How to answer scholarship essay questions about your career goals

Begin with dialogue

First, you could begin your essay with conversation. This can be an interesting and unexpected way to start your scholarship essay. Maybe someone asked you an unexpected question? Perhaps you were having an interesting conversation with a friend or family member? Either way, dialogue can be a powerful tool to start your essay.

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Put the reader in your shoes.

Alternatively, you can choose to start your essay by placing the reader right in your shoes and show them something from your life. Appeal to the senses and show the reader what you see, hear, smell, or taste. These specific details will help your essay come to life and make it even more memorable. 

Also recommended: What’s the best scholarship essay format?

Scholarship essay introduction example

Next,  we’ll look at a specific example of how you can open up your essay. Let’s say you are applying for the Questbridge scholarship program . One of the essays that you will be asked is:

We are interested in learning more about you and the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations, and accomplished your academic successes. Please describe the factors and challenges that have most influenced you. How are they shaping your future aspirations?

You might be tempted to rephrase the question and start your essay with something like:

“I have grown up in a rural context and this has formed my aspirations and allowed me to accomplish academic success…”

This is generic and will not engage your reader at all. 

Instead, what if you started off your essay with something like this:

“I look outside my bedroom window and see Henry, my favorite chicken, pecking at something in the dirt.” 

Makes a big difference, right? As a reader, you are probably wondering: why does this person have chickens outside their bedroom window? Why did they name this particular chicken Henry?

See also: Here are our top writing & essay scholarships for students!

Keep the ending of your essay in mind as you write the opening

While crafting your opening, be open to ideas about how to close your essay. There is no need to stress about the ending now, but being mindful of effective ways to end an essay is always a good idea. Say you are opening your scholarship essay with Henry the chicken. Is there a way for Henry to make an impactful appearance at the end of the essay to close things out in a way that perfectly wraps everything up? The key is for the essay ending to be meaningful and memorable for the reader. 

Don’t miss: Our free scholarship search tool

If you can’t think of a “wow” scholarship essay beginning, keep writing!

Sometimes, we know what we want to say, point by point, but we are not ready to be creative when it comes to opening an essay. In that case, keep writing! There is always the option of going back and crafting an engaging opening after your essay is written. Simply write your main idea where the first paragraph would be to guide you as you write. After, go back when your creative juices are flowing, and craft the amazing opening (and closing) that your scholarship essay deserves!

Final thoughts

As shown, there are many questions that we as readers will have after reading an engaging essay opening such as the one just shared; We want to learn more about the student who is writing this essay. After all, as a writer trying to stand out in a pile of essays, that is our main goal. 

We hope that you have a better understanding of how to start a scholarship essay so you can maximize your chances of winning scholarships!

Additional resources

Scholarships360 is the go-to for all things college admissions and scholarships! Wondering how to write a 250 word essay and how to write a 500 word essay ? Curious how to write an essay about yourself ? Wow, do we have the resources to help! Additionally, check out our free scholarship search tool to help you finance your college education. Best of luck to you and your future endeavors! 

Key Takeaways

• The first sentence of the essay is what makes the reader want to continue reading 
• Engage the reader by appealing to the senses
• Create a sense of wonder in your essay, making the reader want to learn more about you
• Keep the ending of the essay in mind as you craft the beginning

Frequently asked questions about how to start a scholarship essay

What is an essay hook, how long should my scholarship essay be.

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QuestBridge Applicants

Let’s get started.

With the goal of enrolling a diverse class of the most talented students from across the country and around the world, our processes and policies are carefully designed to evaluate each applicant based on individual merits and potential to succeed at Rice.

* Dates are for 2020-2021 application cycle

Application Materials

• September Last applicable ACT (optional)
• Sep. 26 QuestBridge Application due to QuestBridge
• October Last applicable SAT (optional)
• OCT. 12 College ranking list due to QuestBridge
• OCT. 18 QuestBridge Finalists notified
• Rice Supplement to the QuestBridge Application
• Architecture portfolio (Architecture applicants only)
• 2023-2024 FAFSA
• 2023-2024 CSS Profile
• 2022 Federal Tax Returns and Forms
• Nov. 3 Request an Alumni interview (optional)
• Nov. 20 Complete a Rice Senior Interview (optional)
• Dec. 1 Match Day decision notification
• Dec. 6 Deadline to choose Early Decision
• Dec. 10 QuestBridge Regular Decision form due (non-matched, non-ED applicants only)
• Decision Plan Verification Form
• QuestBridge Midyear Report
• Test Scores (optional)
• See QuestBridge college partner page
• Jan. 6 Request an Alumni Interview (optional)
• Feb. 1 2024-2025 FAFSA

QuestBridge Profiles

Meet a few of our own Rice Quest Scholars and hear how participation in QuestBridge impacted their college journey.

Noemi Moreno

Bradley ramsey, arielle noah.

QuestBridge FAQS

Application Policies & Procedures

First-year domestic applicants are those who will complete high school by the end of the current academic year and hold one of the following citizenship or residency statuses:

• U.S. citizenship
• Permanent Residency
• Undocumented who do not hold DACA status but have resided in the U.S. for an extended period of time
• Refugee/Asylee

Students enrolled in concurrent high school and college courses are considered first-year candidates.

Students who have elected to take time off from schooling between graduating from high school and enrolling in college are considered first-year candidates.

Completion of a high school diploma (or an equivalent) prior to enrollment is required for all new incoming students.

Rice requires a $75 nonrefundable application fee. Students requesting an application fee waiver from Rice should respond to the fee waiver prompts provided in the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir. Those students participating in the QuestBridge program automatically qualify for application fee waivers from Rice.

The Rice supplement offers you the opportunity to share more about yourself. This is your chance to tell us why you are interested in Rice and what you would like to pursue as a student here. We also want you to elaborate on your experiences and achievements to share what you would bring to our community.

Essay Prompts (2023-2024)

1. Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 150 word limit.

2. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 150 word limit.

3. Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community (optional):

• The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system? 500 word limit.
• Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice? 500 word limit.

One of Rice's long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. The Box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir, or uploaded in the Rice Admission Student Portal.

Applicants interested in Shepherd School of Music must submit additional materials depending on their area of study. All application materials must be completed by December 1. Music applicants are not eligible to apply through QuestBridge or Early Decision. Admitted students must pursue the music program for at least one year before changing schools. For more information, please visit the Shepherd School of Music Admission page.

Applicants interested in the School of Architecture must submit a portfolio of creative work. Portfolios should be uploaded via your Rice Admission Student Portal. Note: Submissions exceeding the specifications listed below will not be accepted.

The portfolio should demonstrate creative potential and is not expected to be architectural in focus nor professional in quality. It may include examples of sketches, paintings, photography, models, etc. Examples of mechanical or computer drafting are strongly discouraged. The School of Architecture does not accept CDs or DVDs.

Portfolio specifications:

• PDF file labeled with applicant name (example: JaneDoe.pdf)
• 15 MB maximum file size
• Page size should be horizontally oriented A4 or Letter (8.5” x 11”); images should be between 150dpi and 300 dpi
• The first page should be a cover/title page with the applicant’s name
• Content can be up to 10 pages (not including the title page); more than one image or work can be included per page
• Captions of images with title, year of execution, media, and size are encouraged. A one to two sentence description is also acceptable.

For more information about the program, please visit their website.

Architecture Essay Prompts

1. Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? 250 words.

2. Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. 250 words.

Applicants interested in the Department of Art under the School of Humanities may submit a portfolio of creative work. If you would like to submit a portfolio, it should be uploaded via your Rice Admission Student Portal. Note: Submissions exceeding the specifications listed below will not be accepted.

The portfolio should demonstrate creative potential and is not expected to be professional in quality. It may include examples of sketches, paintings, photography, models, etc. The Department of Art does not accept CDs or DVDs, but can access URLs to Vimeo or social media pages provided within the portfolio.

• The first page/file should be a cover/title page document with the applicant’s name
• 1 GB maximum file size
• Images should be at least 2000 pixels on the longest dimension and between 150 dpi and 300 dpi
• Content can be up to 10 files (not including the title page); more than one image or work can be included per file
• Submissions of durational and/or moving-image work(s), no matter how many, cannot be longer than five (5) minutes total

To upload your portfolio, access your Rice Admission Student Portal, scroll down to the Art Portfolio section and click “Edit Portfolio”.

Early Decision Plan

Early Decision is a binding decision plan designed for students who have selected Rice as their first choice. Students may initiate applications to other colleges under nonbinding plans but must withdraw those applications if admitted to Rice. Students who apply Early Decision must submit their materials by November 1. Admission decisions will be released by mid-December.

All admission decisions are final. There are three admission outcomes from Early Decision; the admission committee will:

• Defer - Deferred applicants are considered with the Regular Decision pool.
• Deny - Denied applicants will not be considered with Regular Decision pool, but are welcome to re-apply in the following application cycle.

It is important to note that, if admitted under Early Decision, a candidate must withdraw all other college applications, may not submit any additional applications after accepting the offer, and must accept Rice’s offer of admission by submitting an enrollment deposit by January 1.

Those accepted under Early Decision who demonstrate financial aid eligibility and submit all required materials by the deadline will receive a financial aid package at the time of admission.

Regular Decision Plan

Regular Decision is a non-binding decision plan. Students who apply Regular Decision must submit their materials by January 4. Admission decisions will be released by April 1.

All admission decisions are final. There are three admission outcomes from Regular Decision; the admission committee will:

• Waitlist – Applicants who are offered a place on the waitlist may elect to be considered for admission if space in the class becomes available.
• Deny – Denied applicants are welcome to re-apply in the following application cycle.

Regular Decision applicants who are offered admission must submit an enrollment deposit by May 1.

Those accepted under Regular Decision who demonstrate financial aid eligibility and submit all required materials by the deadline will receive a financial aid package at the time of admission.

Rice is one of the original QuestBridge university and college partners (starting in 2004), and we are now one of only 45 university and college partners with a proven commitment to providing access to low-income students. Programs Rice supports include the College Prep Conferences (typically held in May and June) and the National College Match program which runs October through December. The National College Match is open to all U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents OR students, regardless of citizenship, currently attending high school in the United States. Music applicants are not eligible to apply through QuestBridge.

Essay Prompts for students using the QuestBridge application (2023-2024)

One of Rice's long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants, including students using the QuestBridge application, to share an image of something that appeals to them. Read more about The Box under the Rice supplement tab.

For more information about applying to Rice through QuestBridge, please visit QuestBridge’s Rice University page or contact us directly at [email protected].

Official Transcripts

Official high school/secondary school transcripts must include grades from 9th through 11th grade as well as courses being taken in the 12th grade. Early Decision applicants are encouraged to submit first marking period grades, when they become available. Regular Decision applicants will be required to submit mid-year grades from 12th grade, when they become available.

Applicants studying in an international exam-based curriculum, must submit:

• All official high school transcripts
• Final exam results (for example IGCE/GCSE, CBSE X/AISSCE X)
• Predicted exam results, if available

Official high school transcripts must be submitted by your high school via the application platform (Common App or Apply Coalition with Scoir), through an online ordering system or eTranscript service , or sent via postal mail directly to the Office of Admission. Transcripts will not be accepted by fax or email.

National Student Clearinghouse (SPEEDE server)

Scribbles (ScribOrder)

Cambridge Assessment International Education (CIE Direct)

For USPS Courier: Rice University Office of Admission-MS 17 P.O. Box 1892 Houston, TX 77251-1892

For DHL/Fedex EXPRESS Couriers (common for international): Rice University Office of Admission-MS 555 6100 Main St. Houston, TX 77005

Course Requirements

Rice seeks students who demonstrate intellectual vitality through their course selection and their grade performance. Most applicants will challenge themselves by taking advantage of the rigorous coursework available to them. At a minimum, students must complete the following.

• At a minimum, the natural science and engineering divisions require trigonometry or precalculus and both chemistry and physics. Students may substitute a second year of chemistry or biology for physics.
• Students admitted with curriculum deficiencies will be asked to complete the required work by taking high school or college-level courses during the summer before enrollment at Rice.

Testing Policy

Rice will allow first-year and transfer student applicants to undergraduate degree-seeking programs to submit SAT or ACT test scores, if they choose. Students who are unable to submit test scores or prefer not to submit test scores will be given full consideration in the admission selection process.

While standardized tests have long served to provide an external benchmark of college-readiness that provides meaningful information about a student’s preparedness for the rigors of a Rice education, they are merely one factor of many that are considered in the admission process. As is consistent with our holistic review, students will be given full consideration with the information they have provided regardless of their decision to submit their test scores.

Students wishing to provide additional exams for admission consideration are welcome to submit these to our office. These exams are purely optional and at the discretion of the students to submit. We want students to have every opportunity to showcase their strengths and academic achievements where possible.

• AP Exams, IB Exams, or AICE Exams: Students may opt to self-report AP, IB or AICE exam scores in the testing section of the Common Application, Apply Coalition with Scoir, or QuestBridge National College Match Application. These scores show mastery of content knowledge in specific subjects and may be eligible for undergraduate course credit once a student enrolls.
• Predicted IB Diploma and A-Levels: Students enrolled in IB and A-Level curricula whose schools submit predicted scores for admission consideration are expected to complete their exams and submit final results prior to enrolling. Should conditions related to the pandemic not allow for students to sit for their IB or A-Level examinations, Rice will accept the scores provided by the examination boards.

General Testing Policy

Students applying to Rice University will not be required to submit SAT or ACT for admission consideration. Students wanting to show their college readiness and academic strengths may choose to submit SAT, ACT, AP, or IB test scores.

• ACT or SAT: Rice does not have a preference for students to submit one test over the other. If an applicant submits both an SAT and an ACT score, the committee will consider the test that best enhances their application.
• Superscore: When reviewing SAT and ACT scores, we use the highest score from each section across all administrations. We encourage students to report all scores knowing that we will recombine the sections to get the best possible set of scores for each candidate.
• Writing and essay sections: The ACT Essay and SAT Writing section are not required and not considered for admission. Writing or essay section scores are not visible as part of the admission evaluation process. This policy will not be affected in light of the cancellation of the SAT Writing section instituted by the College Board.
• Self-reported Scores: Students have the option to submit self-reported scores if they are graduating from a high school within the U.S. or submit official scores. Admitted students who choose to enroll at Rice will be required to submit official test scores prior to matriculation.
• Official Test Scores: To be considered official, scores must be sent directly from the testing organization. Rice’s College Board code, including TOEFL, is 6609 and our ACT code is 4152.

Please refer to our Class Profile for more information on the academic profile of admitted students.

Candidates must submit letters of recommendation from their counselor and two teachers.

Counselor Letter of Recommendation

The counselor letter of recommendation serves to highlight the accomplishments of a student within the context of their high school. The letter must come from an applicant’s assigned school counselor, college counselor, principal, or headmaster. Applicants will not be disadvantaged if their high school structure and counselor’s caseload does not allow students the opportunity to build a personal relationship with their counselor.

Teacher Letters of Recommendation

The two teacher recommendations serve to highlight the applicant’s academic strengths and contributions in the classroom. Both of these recommendations should be from teachers of core academic subjects, and ideally one recommendation would relate to the applicant's intended area of study. Though not a requirement, we would prefer letters come from teachers who have taught the student for a full course.

Supplemental Letters of Recommendation

The required counselor recommendation and two teacher recommendations provide the Admission Committee with all the information we need to make an informed admission decision. However, if someone has unique and personal knowledge about an applicant's accomplishments or talents, the applicant may have that individual submit a supplemental recommendation. For example, this could include an employer, supervisor, coach, mentor, or another teacher. Supplemental recommendations must include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, or applicant ID and should be submitted through the application platform or to [email protected].

We recommend an interview for first-year applicants, though they are optional and not guaranteed. Interviews are a great way to communicate your knowledge about Rice and an excellent opportunity to showcase academic and personal successes while learning more about the campus experience. An inability to schedule an interview will not negatively impact your application.

All interviews for the 2023 - 2024 application cycle will be conducted virtually. A trained alumnus or current Rice University senior will virtually meet with you to learn more about your accomplishments and academic interests and to answer your questions about studying at Rice.

A limited number of interviews with current Rice University seniors will be available beginning in late August through our campus visit website . You do not need to have submitted your admission application to schedule an interview with a current senior, but interview slots are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please follow the deadlines below when scheduling an interview with a current senior.

If you are unable to schedule an interview with a Rice senior, you will still have the opportunity to request an interview with a member of the Rice Alumni Volunteers for Admission (RAVA). Due to limited availability, you will need to submit your application for admission before requesting an interview with RAVA. Then access your online applicant portal and request your virtual interview by the deadlines below.

*Please note that you may only complete one interview. We have no preference between completing an interview with a Rice senior or a RAVA. In years of exceptionally high demand for interviews, all requests may not be fulfilled. We will try to match students who request an interview by the priority deadline first.

Rice University has concluded our participation in the Rice/Baylor Medical Scholars program.

We remain committed to supporting our current cohorts as they finish their studies at Rice and matriculate into Baylor College of Medicine. However, we will no longer accept new applications to the Rice/Baylor Program.

With Rice’s location situated next to the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, our students benefit from opportunities to work with leading researchers and medical professionals and are exceedingly successful pursuing their aspirations in medicine and healthcare. We will continue to advise students on the many avenues and pathways to becoming healthcare professionals, including the traditional medical school application process.

You will be notified via email how to access your Rice Admission Student Portal which is designed to assist you in tracking our receipt of your application materials and to communicate your final admission decision. The only valid notification of an admission decision is a formal communication from the Rice University Office for Enrollment. We reserve the right to close your application if you are admitted under a binding Early Decision plan at another institution.

Need-Based Financial Aid

We know that one of the biggest factors in determining the right school is affordability. Because we believe talent deserves opportunity, Rice offers need-blind admission to domestic students. This means we do not consider finances when we review the application. Additionally, Rice meets 100 percent of demonstrated need – without loans – through the Rice Investment, one of the most notable financial aid programs in the country. For more information about need-based financial aid and the Rice Investment, please visit our Office of Financial Aid website.

Merit-Based Scholarships

The Office of Admission offers merit-based scholarships to incoming first year students who distinguish themselves academically and personally within our highly competitive group of admitted students. These scholarships are based solely on merit and financial need is not taken into consideration. There is no separate application or interview required; the Admission Committee automatically considers all admitted students, both domestic and international, on the basis of the student’s application for admission. About 20% of admitted students are offered a merit scholarship each year. Students awarded a merit-based scholarship will be notified at the time of admission.

Advanced Placement (AP) Exams

Rice University awards transfer credit for the Advanced Placement (AP) Program, which enables high school students to earn transfer credit for college-level courses taken in high school upon completion of AP examinations with a score of 4 or 5. For more information about the AP transfer credit process, please visit the Advanced Placement (AP) Credit page.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Exams

Rice University awards transfer credit for International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations for students who hold the International Baccalaureate Diploma and have obtained a score of 6 or 7 on higher level exams. For more information about the IB transfer credit process, please visit the International Baccalaureate (IB) Credit page.

International Exams

Students who complete various international exams with a grade of A or B may receive transfer credit. These exams include A-Levels, the Abitur, CAPE, CEGEP (Science Option), French Baccalauréat (Science Option), Italian Maturita, and Swiss Federal Maturity Certificate. For more information about the international exams transfer credit process, please visit the International Exam Credit page.

Transfer/Dual Credit

The Office of the Registrar evaluates courses taken at other regionally accredited colleges or universities (or their foreign equivalent) that are appropriate to the Rice curriculum for potential transfer credit.

Transfer credit will not be awarded for courses included on a student’s high school transcript and used to satisfy high school graduation requirements, i.e. dual credit courses. Only those students who have more than 20 college preparatory courses may have the Office of the Registrar consider for Rice credit their college courses taken in high school. For more information about the transfer credit process, please visit the Transfer Credit page.

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Scholarship Essays

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship Essay Sample

We are interested in learning more about you and the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations and accomplished your academic successes. please describe the factors and challenges that have most shaped your personal life and aspirations. how have these factors caused you to grow.

A sea of smiling and eager faces awaited before me as I stood on the stage, waiting for the final word - eruption. I grinned as I imagined myself sitting on my dad's lap in the living room of our one bedroom apartment as a video of volcanoes played from a rented library cassette. Occasionally I would question him on unfamiliar terms or why things worked how they did and as he braided my hair, he explained the functions of a volcano and its effects on the earth. At the end of the final letter, I saw the judge smile at me and announce the new 5th grade Spelling Bee Champion. I looked out at the crowd and noticed two missing smiles, my mother's and my father's.

Growing up, there were numerous absences by my parent's, but there was never an absence of love. With one car and my dad working days and nights and my mom working days to support the family, I understood that I wouldn't have the same experiences as other children. When I left Nepal at two, we had to sacrifice some cultural ties. My mother left the family she was expected to care for and my father left his duties as the eldest son so that we could come to America and have the chance for better opportunities. After my father got his Master's degree in Belgium while we stayed in a crowded apartment with my uncle and his family, we obtained travel Visas and moved to America so he could continue his education and where we once again had to share a one bedroom apartment with four adults, two kids, and a baby. We knew our hardships now would be worth the trouble, but that was not the case. As time went on, it became harder for my dad to handle school and keep a job. With my mom working in a humid Laundromat with minimum English, my dad quit school so that our family had enough money to sustain ourselves.

As I continued to go to school, we eventually moved into a two bedroom apartment for ourselves; however, the location was not what most consider ideal. Living near the Detroit area influenced me on a cultural and mental level. I can still remember all the news about violence and a particular one of a man committing suicide just a floor above us. At the time, I didn't know what his reason was but I knew that it was because of unhappiness. Being a child, I couldn't imagine living a truly unhappy life even through all the hardships I endured and it opened my eyes to the realities of the world and what people face on a daily basis. As the violence and poverty around us continued, my parents refused to let us go out other than for school. There was an instance in which my older brother and I were in the elevator along with two men coming home from elementary school and I can still vividly hear them call us derogatory names as we just had to stand and listen. While that moment certainly seems negative, it has impacted me in a positive way. It made me realize that I am indeed different from other people but it shouldn't be something to be ashamed of. I learned that there are people who will hurt me but there are many more who will make up for it.

What may seem as misfortunes for my family, I view as inspirations to strive in my education. Even religiously, I have viewed books as important since stepping on one is considered a horrible sin. I know that my education has put my parents in a bind of wanting to stay here for me and wanting to go back to Nepal. Unable to attend their own parents' funerals, I witnessed them argue more about money every day, which is what pushes me for success. I know there are many families in Nepal who believe our efforts were to no avail, but I know that I can prove them wrong and serve as a role model for children, especially girls who are not expected to attend college, that no matter what the circumstances, a higher education is not out of reach and that sometimes, sacrifices are needed for a greater good. While I certainly did not experience the best childhood, it has been a journey that's enabled me to grow into the positive and understanding person I am today and I hope to continue that journey myself and help other children on their own. I hope to invest in the future of other children's educations as my family, teachers, friends, and hopefully you will in mine!

Original Source: Essay Forum

The Questbridge Scholarship Guide

The questbridge scholarship guide.

The QuestBridge Scholarship is one of the most recognizable scholarships for high school students in the country. With over 50 QuestBridge college partners around the country, QuestBridge College Prep Scholars can be found all over the US. These scholarships help low-income students attend elite colleges . QuestBridge offers resources to high school juniors and seniors and continues to support them throughout college.

In this guide, we will cover the QuestBridge National College Match and the different QuestBridge scholarships available to high school juniors and seniors. We will also look at the QuestBridge application and show you how you could become a QuestBridge finalist. Finally, we will look at the QuestBridge scholarship requirements and the list of QuestBridge schools that QuestBridge Scholars can attend.

What is QuestBridge?

The QuestBridge Scholars program began with eight students at Stanford University . The founders, Marc Lawrence and Michael McCullough, wanted to provide opportunities for low-income California students to experience a high-quality medical school education. The program soon grew into a residency with more than twenty medical students involved each year. In 1994, when Ana Rowena Mallari joined the program board, SYMSP became Quest. At this point, it started to incorporate leadership and community outreach training directed at first-generation college students.

Six years later, the Quest program expanded to Harvard University and began accepting students from disciplines outside of medicine. As the program grew, more Quest alumni joined the ranks of its staff. Eventually, Quest became QuestBridge, and the number of partner schools grew from two to seven.

Within two years, 26 partner colleges joined the QuestBridge program seeking to recruit high-achieving, low-income students for their incoming classes. Today, the QuestBridge Scholarship and QuestBridge National College Match continue to serve high-achieving, low-income students. Specifically, it provides them a pathway to elite colleges that might not otherwise be accessible to them. 

What kind of scholarships does QuestBridge have?

There are two main QuestBridge Scholarships.

I. QuestBridge College Prep Scholarships

The first is the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship, which is one of their college scholarships for high school juniors. The QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship aims to help high school juniors get a head start on the college application process.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, many QuestBridge College Prep Scholars go on to become QuestBridge finalists through the QuestBridge National College Match. This program is designed to provide assistance and college scholarships for those who are often ineligible for other awards.

II. QuestBridge National College Match

The second is the QuestBridge National College Match, which provides full scholarships for students to attend a QuestBridge college partner. A student must match with one of the QuestBridge schools during the QuestBridge application process. When they do, that student will receive early admission and a QuestBridge Scholarship to cover the full cost of college.

The QuestBridge National College Match is open to high school seniors. However, QuestBridge applicants must meet certain financial eligibility requirements in order to apply.

Who qualifies for QuestBridge?

Both the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship and the QuestBridge National College Match require applicants to meet the QuestBridge scholarship requirements. Let’s take a look at who qualifies for QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship and the QuestBridge National College Match!

QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship requirements:

A QuestBridge College Prep Scholar must meet the following requirements :

• Be a high school junior
• Attend high school in the United States OR be a US citizen attending high school abroad
• Plan to apply for college in the fall of their senior year
• Demonstrate strong academic performance (mostly A’s and B’s in rigorous academic courses)
• Have demonstrated financial need (typically with a family income of less than $65,000)

Additionally, QuestBridge College Prep Scholars typically have strong extracurricular involvement and awards or recognitions through their school or community. Moreover, many are the first in their families to attend college. While these are not formal requirements, they are typical among QuestBridge recipients.

QuestBridge National College Match requirements

Applicants through the QuestBridge National College Match must meet slightly different requirements:

• Be a high school senior applying to attend college in the fall of the subsequent year
• Submit the QuestBridge application by the application deadline (usually in late September)
• Showcase strong writing skills in their QuestBridge application

In many cases, QuestBridge finalists through the QuestBridge National College Match are high achievers, as are QuestBridge College Prep Scholars. In addition, many finalists are also the first in their families to attend college.

Both of the QuestBridge scholarship programs review applications holistically, meaning there is no GPA cut-off or standardized test score requirement. Similarly, there is no firm requirement for family income for QuestBridge applicants. With that said, the majority come from households earning less than $65,000 per year. Every QuestBridge scholarship applicant is reviewed independently, so there is no guaranteed formula for becoming a QuestBridge scholarship recipient.

Interested in Questbridge colleges near you? Use our College Search Feature to explore colleges in your home state—then see which ones are Questbridge College Partners !

QuestBridge Scholarship for Juniors

Of the available college scholarships for high school juniors, few provide as much support as the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship. The QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity to get a head start on college applications. Students can even secure money for college admissions before entering the QuestBridge National College Match program. In fact, QuestBridge College Prep Scholars are five times more likely to be matched with QuestBridge college partners than other QuestBridge applicants.

Next, let’s learn about the ins and outs of this aspect of the QuestBridge scholarship program.

QuestBridge College Prep Scholar Program

The QuestBridge College Prep Scholar program has several benefits for applicants. In particular, the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship provides an opportunity to both earn money for college and receive support throughout the college application process. Note that the QuestBridge College Prep Scholar program does not provide tuition awards—instead, it aims to fund expenses that will allow students to succeed in the admissions process.

Additionally, QuestBridge College Prep Scholars can attend a fully funded summer program at one of the QuestBridge schools. These programs are both residential and virtual and are offered at many of the QuestBridge college partners.

QuestBridge College Prep Scholars also receive a Quest for Excellence award. These awards cover the cost of college-related expenses, such as:

• Visiting QuestBridge college partners
• Paying college application or standardized test fees
• Buying school supplies like a new laptop

These awards vary by the recipient, so each QuestBridge College Prep Scholar may be eligible for his or her own award.

In addition, each QuestBridge College Prep Scholar receives personalized college essay feedback as well as other guidance throughout the college application process. This can be especially valuable for first-generation college students or those with limited support networks. The QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship also provides access to online peer support and a college fair. At the fair, QuestBridge applicants can survey the different QuestBridge partner schools and learn more about them.

QuestBridge College Prep Scholar Requirements

In 2022, out of more than 13,000 QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship applicants, only 3,414 were awarded this QuestBridge scholarship. Clearly, winning a QuestBridge scholarship is no easy feat—after all, this is an outstanding scholarship for high school students.

Applicants for the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship must demonstrate financial need. Indeed, over 90% of students come from households with an annual income of $65,000 or less. Applicants must also demonstrate high academic achievement: 90% of recipients were in the top 10% of their class. Correspondingly, the average GPA for recipients was 3.93. Students may also submit standardized test scores to demonstrate their academic achievement, though these are not required for the application. 

QuestBridge College Prep Scholar Application

Applicants for the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship must submit their QuestBridge scholarship applications by March 22, 2023.

Remember that these are college scholarships for high school juniors, so only current high school juniors are eligible to apply. Applying is free and students can fill out the application form at the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship website.

In addition to the application itself, students must also submit a high school transcript, a letter of recommendation from a core subject teacher, and information about their family’s financial status. Students should make sure they have access to their parents’ tax records when completing their QuestBridge application.

The QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship application is reviewed holistically. This means that all aspects of the application are taken into consideration when choosing winners. We recommend that students apply early and seek advice from teachers and counselors when filling out any QuestBridge scholarship application. This tip applies to any and all of the many competitive college scholarships for high school juniors!

How many students get QuestBridge Scholarships?

As mentioned above, the QuestBridge scholarships are some of the most competitive awards in the country. Therefore, both the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship and the QuestBridge National College Match receive thousands of applicants each year. However, the QuestBridge partner schools can only accept a small fraction of the students that apply each year.

In 2022, the QuestBridge National College Match received around 18,000 total applications. Only 5,613 of those QuestBridge applicants went on to become QuestBridge finalists. This means that around 30% of applicants become finalists. However, only a fraction of those QuestBridge finalists go on to receive early admission and the full QuestBridge Scholarship.

In 2021, out of the 6,312 QuestBridge finalists selected, 1,674 matched with one of the QuestBridge schools. These numbers indicate that only about 9% of applicants and 26% of finalists go on to win a QuestBridge scholarship.

QuestBridge Scholarship for Seniors

While juniors are eligible for the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship, there are other scholarships for high school students that are exclusive to seniors. These include the well-known National Merit Scholarship, Coca-Cola Scholarship , and the QuestBridge National College Match scholarship.

The QuestBridge scholarship covers the full cost of college at one of the QuestBridge partner schools, an award often valued at over $200,000. The amount of money awarded through the QuestBridge scholarship exceeds both the National Merit Scholarship ($2,500) and the Coca-Cola Scholarship ($20,000).

QuestBridge National College Match Program

The QuestBridge scholarship is awarded to select students who complete the QuestBridge National College Match process during their senior year. Students complete this process instead of filling out traditional college applications. In other words, students must complete a QuestBridge application that is separate from the Common or Coalition Application.

Because this process works a bit differently than a traditional application cycle, let’s look at the steps . After all, the best way to become a QuestBridge finalist and get a QuestBridge scholarship is to be well-prepared.

Application

Students begin by creating a QuestBridge scholarship account and filling out the QuestBridge application. The QuestBridge application opens in late summer, meaning that students can start crafting their application materials before their senior year even begins. The QuestBridge application is often due in late September, although the exact deadline changes from year to year.

In comparison to other college application timelines , QuestBridge is due very early, so a timely start is crucial. Students should plan accordingly to ensure materials are submitted on time. Managing your time and school coursework is paramount at this point in the process.

Another key point is that the QuestBridge application is more extensive than most other application platforms. Students must submit their family’s financial information, including data from recent tax returns, which can take some time to acquire. In addition, the QuestBridge application requires two letters of recommendation, two essays, and two short answer responses. Finally, students submit a score report and a transcript from their high school; SAT or ACT scores are optional . 

Ranking College Partners

After students submit their QuestBridge application, they must complete the match rankings form. Here, students may rank their preferences for up to 15 QuestBridge college partners. At this stage, students may research and/or visit the different QuestBridge schools to learn more about them. Then they use the rankings form to indicate which QuestBridge schools they would most want to be matched with. Though this does not guarantee a match with the top school, it helps schools understand student preferences.

After submitting their match rankings, students must submit a match agreement form similar to a binding Early Decision agreement. In detail, this states that students will accept any offer of admission given to them through the match process. Both the student and their counselor must sign the agreement in order to proceed with the match process.

Following that, students will then learn whether they are QuestBridge scholarship finalists in mid-October. Those not chosen as finalists may enter the regular applicant pool and submit any additional college applications that they wish. Those chosen to be finalists will move on to the next stage in the QuestBridge scholarship process.

Match Requirements

Every QuestBridge finalist must then submit “ match requirements ” by November 1st to any of their ranked schools. Note that the requirements don’t need to be completed for every school, only for the ones that the student wants to attend. These QuestBridge scholarship requirements are different for each of the QuestBridge partner schools.

QuestBridge scholarship requirements may include financial documents like the CSS Profile or FAFSA . They also may include additional recommendations from teachers or peers. Finally, nearly all the QuestBridge schools require some supplementary essay or short answer questions as part of their match documents. Again, QuestBridge partner schools all have unique requirements that can change from year to year, so students should confirm them early. 

QuestBridge National College Match Day

On December 1st, all of the QuestBridge partner schools release their matches. Students are notified if they have matched with any of the schools to which they applied. Anyone matched at this stage must withdraw any other applications and accept the offer from their highest-ranked match. As QuestBridge scholarship recipients, these students will not have to pay the total cost of attendance for all four years.

Students who are not matched at this stage of the process may use their QuestBridge application materials to apply through QuestBridge regular decision . Here, they may reapply for free to any of the QuestBridge college partners they choose. Aside from QuestBridge, students may submit applications to non-QuestBridge schools through the Common, Coalition, or other application platforms.

At that point, QuestBridge materials will be reviewed along with the rest of the regular decision applicant pool. Similar to match requirements, application deadlines for any additional materials will vary based on the school. As always, check the websites of the schools you are applying to for the latest information.

The process for applying through QuestBridge National College Match can seem daunting. Undeniably, there are many steps that need to be completed before becoming a finalist. We recommend that you begin your application as soon as possible and keep a checklist so you do not miss any important deadlines or dates.

For more information on how to stand out through the QuestBridge application process and manage your time during the application process, check out these resources !

How much is the QuestBridge Scholarship?

The QuestBridge National College Match scholarship covers the full cost of college at the recipient’s matched school. This includes tuition, housing, and books, as well as additional money for college travel and living expenses while on campus. Although the exact amount varies between the different QuestBridge partner schools, the average value of the award exceeds $200,000.

In addition, this money for college includes no parental contribution and no student loans. This means that QuestBridge scholarship recipients graduate with no student loan debt. However, part of the scholarship may include a student contribution through federal work-study or summer employment. 

QuestBridge Schools

QuestBridge schools are so named because they participate in the QuestBridge National College Match and accept QuestBridge finalists. Although the program started with only one school, Stanford University , the number of QuestBridge college partners has grown to 51 . This number includes six Ivy League Universities as well as many other elite public and private colleges around the country.

List of QuestBridge College Partners

Questbridge scholarship requirements.

The QuestBridge scholarship requirements for the QuestBridge National College Match scholarship are similar to those for the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship. Students must first either attend high school in the US or be US citizens attending high school abroad. In addition, students must demonstrate significant financial need; many finalists come from households earning less than $65,000 per/year. 

The other criteria are not firm requirements, but they do provide insights into the profile of a typical QuestBridge finalist. QuestBridge finalists typically earn “A” grades in rigorous high school courses. If they submit test scores, they are typically above 1260 for the SAT and above 27 for the ACT. Finalists also show significant extracurricular involvement in their school or community. Also, many have earned awards or recognitions for their achievements in high school.

Finally, according to the QuestBridge scholarship website, 77% of finalists are first-generation college students. This aligns with QuestBridge’s mission to open access to higher education to high-achieving students who need significant aid. Students interested in the QuestBridge scholarship can view all requirements and application review criteria on the QuestBridge scholarship website, here .

Becoming a QuestBridge Finalist

Once students have completed the QuestBridge National College Match application, the committee reviews applications. From the cohort, approximately 30% of QuestBridge applicants become QuestBridge finalists. These finalists are then eligible to be matched with any of the colleges they selected on their match rankings form.

The QuestBridge application is reviewed holistically, so there is no single formula for how to become a finalist. However, each QuestBridge finalist has managed to demonstrate high academic achievement while navigating financial hardship.

Spotlight on QuestBridge finalists

QuestBridge finalists come from all over the country and from all different backgrounds . Over half of the QuestBridge National College Match scholarship recipients identify as a race other than white. Additionally, around 25% have either dual citizenship or citizenship outside of the US.

We want to highlight two people who have been positively impacted by their participation in the QuestBridge scholarship program: CollegeAdvisor.com Scholar Bridgette and CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Expert Maria.

Scholar Spotlight: Bridgette

Bridgette was one of our CollegeAdvisor.com Scholars. Each year, CollegeAdvisor.com provides free, personalized college advising to students with financial need.

With plenty of CollegeAdvisor.com resources and her personal advisor Jasmine, Bridgette crafted a standout QuestBridge application. Together, Jasmine and Bridgette edited essays and made sure all parts of the application were up to QuestBridge’s high standards. Ultimately, Bridgette was matched with Northwestern University, where she plans to major in Journalism with a minor in Politics or History.

Advisor Spotlight: Maria Jose “Majo”

Similarly, current CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Expert Maria entered the QuestBridge scholarship program as a high school student. Her parents immigrated from Colombia to the United States when she was only five years old. Maria would become the first in her family to attend college when she was matched with Princeton University.

Though she later decided to attend Harvard, Maria’s QuestBridge experience inspired her to help other students like her with their college application journeys. This dream led her to the Harvard Financial Aid Office, where she worked directly with students navigating college admissions.

How many QuestBridge finalists are matched?

Because the QuestBridge program provides so much financial assistance, only a small fraction of applicants are matched each year. Only students who receive matches are eligible for the full-ride QuestBridge scholarship. In 2021, 1,674 students were matched; however, that number grew to 1,755 students in 2022. Indeed, as more QuestBridge partner schools join the program, the potential for more matches increases every year.

In addition, QuestBridge finalists who go unmatched may still apply to QuestBridge partner schools during the Regular Decision application round. Many students who apply this way still receive generous financial aid packages from the schools that accept them. Furthermore, students who apply as QuestBridge finalists have some advantages over other RD applicants. For example, waived application fees and the distinction of their finalist status can help QuestBridge applicants in the admissions process. 

Is QuestBridge legit?

When vetting scholarships for high school students, it’s common to ask if they’re legitimate. You don’t need to look far to see the real and positive impact the QuestBridge program has had on its finalists. The money awarded through the QuestBridge scholarship is truly life-changing. Stories from finalists and winners illustrate the extent to which QuestBridge has improved their lives and changed their futures. 

Since its beginnings at Stanford nearly four decades ago, QuestBridge has helped thousands of excellent students access a world-class education. With a strong track record of positive outcomes and many alumni going on to luminous careers, we can say, yes. QuestBridge is legit.

But you don’t have to take our word for it. You can find a list of many stories from QuestBridge scholarship recipients here . Each one showcases a high-achieving, low-income high school student who was given an opportunity through QuestBridge to receive a life-changing education at no cost to their family. Many QuestBridge scholarship recipients are also movers and shakers in their fields—maybe there’s a scholar in your area of interest.

Other Scholarships for Juniors and Seniors

Certainly, the QuestBridge scholarship is one of the most lucrative college scholarships for high school juniors and seniors. However, the QuestBridge scholarship is far from your only option when it comes to money for college. We have already mentioned two of the many prestigious national awards: the National Merit Scholarship and the Coca-Cola Scholarship.

42 Scholarships for High School Juniors

Students looking for scholarships should look both locally and nationally, as there are many different sources of scholarships available. Local awards may be smaller than national ones, but the applicant pool is usually much smaller. So as to widen their safety net, a student who qualifies for QuestBridge would also ideally apply to other scholarships.

We at CollegeAdvisor.com have also compiled a directory of many scholarships for high school students, which can be found here . For more on how to stand out among the competitive merit scholarship applicant pool, click here . We also have a thorough Q&A about financial aid here .

QuestBridge Scholarship–Final Thoughts

The QuestBridge scholarship programs have helped many high-achieving, low-income students realize their dreams of attending a top-tier college or university. The educational opportunities opened by a QuestBridge scholarship cannot be understated. With new QuestBridge schools being added constantly, the reach of this program continues to expand every year. 

Unquestionably, this program is competitive, and not everyone who qualifies for QuestBridge will receive a scholarship. However, it is still worth applying if you meet the QuestBridge scholarship requirements. Students must be hard-working, resilient, and academically excellent in order to make it through this long and difficult process. But for those who do, the reward of a full-ride QuestBridge scholarship is definitely worth it.  

Students interested in participating in the QuestBridge scholarship program can start as early as their junior year by applying for the QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship. This initial application will get you started on your journey with QuestBridge and help prepare you to enter the National College Match in your senior year. Make sure to review all deadlines and QuestBridge scholarship requirements on the QuestBridge website before submitting your application!

Finally, if you are looking for personalized help throughout the QuestBridge application process, sign up for a CollegeAdvisor.com account . Students with demonstrated financial need may qualify for free advising through the Scholars program, which can help your application stand out. Good luck!

This article on the QuestBridge Scholarship was written by Senior Advisor Alex Baggott-Rowe . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Scholarship Details

Match Scholarship Recipients are granted admission to one of QuestBridge's college partners with a full four-year scholarship worth over $200,000 each . Our college partners use a combination of their own funds as well as state and federal aid to fund the scholarship. Please view each  college partner's  Financial Aid section for further details and see a  glossary  of financial aid terms.

The Match Scholarship is offered as part of a generous financial aid package provided by the QuestBridge college partner that covers the cost of attendance, including:

• Tuition and fees
• Housing and food
• Books and supplies
• Travel expenses

All Match Scholarship packages:

• Have NO parental contribution
• Have NO student loans
• May contain a student contribution in the form of work-study, summer work, or student savings

Default Modal title

Nail the Questbridge College Prep Scholars Essays

• The structure.  Introduce your topic briefly (approximately 25 words maximum).  Provide a reasonable transition that logically flows into your thesis.  Your thesis is simply your answer to their question.  Use at least 150 words to elaborate and provide “proof” for your thesis. Use the last 25 words to close out with a conclusion.  Do your best to use all 200 words.
• The topic.  Remember, this short essay is focused on intellectual curiosity .  That means, focus on an academic topic.  Don’t “dumb down” your language when discussing a theory or concept.
• The tone.  Your goal is to convey authentic interest and engagement in the subject matter.  Use compelling language without going overboard.  For example, most students wouldn’t legitimately gush about linear algebra.
• The proof.  Don’t just tell, you need to show.  Provide meaningful examples to exemplify your interest.  It’s helpful to link the topic to your intended major.  This makes logical sense, and it allows you to provide examples from Honors or AP/IB coursework, workshops, lectures, summer research, on-campus clubs, online courses, community college courses, or internships.
• Political affiliation (immigrants rights, women’s rights, global climate, etc.)
• Mental Health (depression, suicide rates, anxiety, etc.)
• Access to 4-year Colleges
• Health Issues
• Gender Issues
• Socioeconomic Issues
• Race, Ethnicity, or Culture
• Sexual Orientation
• Convey Impact.  The goal is not to simply declare that something caused you to change your perspective.  You must provide reasonable and logical “proof” to explain how your changed opinion or perspective impacted you.  In other words, what was the outcome of your new perspective?  Did it cause you to join a group?  Lead a movement?  Change your lifestyle?  Confirm you future major?
• Convey Intellectual Depth.  Focus on a topic that conveys critical analysis, introspection, and reflection.  How did you arrive at your new perspective?  Describe the mental process you engaged in, and how you eventually arrived at your new position or perspective.
• Link to Scholarly Pursuits or Future Career Plans.  If this experience shifted or solidified your intended college major, tell them.  As well, did this new perspective compel you to consider a future career?  Remember, this is a “College Prep” program, so stay within the overall theme.
• You can’t pick and choose!  You must respond to all four (4) subtopics in this prompt.  Respond in the order in which they are listed.
• Begin with describing the context "in which you have grown up."  This context could include your family background, immigrant status, culture, etc. 
• Don’t underestimate the fact that Questbridge programs are geared exclusively for low-income students.  That means you should place particular emphasis on how your family’s socioeconomic status impacted you.  The impact may be academically (did you attend a low-performing school or a Title 1 campus?); health-wise (did your family lack healthcare benefits?); residence (apartment rental, sharing home with other families?), or regarding college preparation (lack of tutors, lack of AP courses, lack of test prep programs, etc.).  These are just examples.
• Make sure to list succinct factors, and then focus on providing details related to these factors.  For example, if attending a low-performing school was a significant factor, elaborate on that topic and provide concrete details on how that factor impacted your performance and/or aspirations.
• They are assuming the factors you listed are indeed aligned with your academic pursuits, personal life, and aspirations.
• “Aspirations” may include academic, career, community service, or civic-minded goals.  Make sure to include both short-term and long-term goals.  Utilize persuasive language that indicates you have a solid plan and the means to actualize this plan.
• Most importantly, listing challenging factors or obstacles is not enough.  End your essay with describing how these factors positively influenced and impacted your goals.  If you need examples, see my infographic on how to “flip” a negative to a positive.
• “Helping you grow” can refer to intellectual or psychological growth.  It can be represented by a new mindset, perspective, or attitude. 
• Bottom line, they are looking for candidates who have experienced adversity but have come out #winning.

Posted March 17th, 2020 by Quetzal Mama

Quetzal Mama

Quetzal Mama is a national resource for students and families from historically underrepresented groups seeking exceptional college advisement and support. We provide coaching programs, college boot camps, award-winning books, a popular blog, workshops and webinars, and a host of free services to get students into the BEST colleges.