QuestBridge Basics
What is QuestBridge?
A nonprofit organization that helps low-income, high-achieving students apply to top colleges
How many schools can students rank?
Up to 15 colleges
When does the QuestBridge application usually open?
Late summer (around July/August)
When should advisors start supporting students with QuestBridge?
Junior Year
Fact or Myth: Being a Finalist guarantees you’ll match.
Myth - it’s competitive and not every Finalist gets matched.
How many QuestBridge partner colleges are there?
55
When are Match decisions typically released?
Early December
How many teacher recommendations are required?
Two recommendations
What’s a good way to keep students on track during the QuestBridge process?
Create checklists and send out deadline reminders.
Fact or Myth: All QuestBridge partner colleges offer full-ride scholarships to matched students.
Fact - The Match scholarship typically covers tuition, room, and board.
How much does QuestBridge charge students to apply?
Nothing! It's completely free!
If a student is chosen for a QuestBridge Match, they are in a (blank) agreement with the school. Meaning they must attend that college and withdraw all other applications.
Binding Agreement
What major writing piece is required in the QuestBridge application?
Student's personal essay.
How can advisors support students with the Match ranking process?
Help them research schools and talk to them seriously about fit and match.
Fact or Myth: Students can rank just one school.
Fact - though most rank more.
What kind of scholarship is offered through the Match?
A full-ride. Tuition, room, and board included
What financial aid documents are required for Match consideration?
FAFSA and CSS Profile
What types of activities should students include in their application?
Extracurriculars, work, and family responsibilities
Advisors should help students create a (blank) in case they are not selected through the Matching Process.
Back-up plan
Fact or Myth: Students need a counselor nomination to apply.
Myth - anyone can apply. But make sure they're an academic fit before starting the application.
What are the two main QuestBridge programs?
College Prep Scholars (11th grade) and National College Match (12th grade).
What does “ranking” a school mean in the QuestBridge Match?
It’s the student’s order of preference for colleges they’re applying to for the Match.
What forms do counselors submit?
Transcripts, School Profile, and School Report
When should a student submit their ACT scores, and how can advisors help improve them?
Students should aim for a 30+ before submitting scores. Advisors can support by helping them plan and schedule retakes.
Fact or Myth: Students can change their ranked college list after submitting their QuestBridge application.
Fact - Changes can be made until the final ranking deadline (usually in October).