Questbridge? Any Info?

[MKCP5]

Hello

Does anyone know anything about questbridge? we got info in the mail from them about college financing and I am wondering what the scoop is.

thanks!

 

[ctinct]

College financing? Unless they have something new this year, it is a scholarship program. It is fabulous for those who get it.....full rides to top schools. But, there are advantages to the program even if you don't get one of the very few scholarships. It is EXTREMELY competitive, and a large part of it is based on income---but that is not solely what it is based on. I had my daughter apply last year, even though I was pretty sure just based on my income she would not get it. Now, if it were a few years ago, when we were really struggling, we might have had a different outcome.

Check out the discussions on collegeconfidential; look under "financial aid and scholarships." Every year there are kids who get it who are stunned because they never thought they would qualify. They pick a bunch of finalists. Not all of them get scholarships, BUT, just by virtue of being a finalist, they are often given special consideration at top schools. The application is pretty involved. There are a bunch of essays and short answer questions. My daughter said that even though she did not get it, she was glad she applied because it forced her to hone her essays early. Also, just by virtue of applying, there are a few schools that will waive their application fee. My daughter applied to Amherst for free. (She was waitlisted, then rejected, but the waitlist status actually made her feel pretty darn good. And, honestly, it was not her first choice school. She pretty much applied just to see what the results would be.)

I think the program will become even more competitive as the years go by. I was stunned that the teachers and guidance counselor at her school thought it was a scam at first---they had not heard of it before. Rest assured it is legitimate. If you think your child has even a small chance at it, I say give it a shot. Good luck.

 

[allison443]

It is a legitimate scholarship program for high-achieving students with financial need. "The National College Match is designed for students who come from families experiencing long-term economic challenges". You can look at their website for further specifics.

 

[Andrea from PA]

I second collegeconfidential forum for more information. Questbridge is a very highly regarded program.

 

[MKCP5]

Thanks guys my DS is a senior and we in rough shape as I have been out of full time work for a long time now. Piecing some things together, but nothing like full time work : ( He's very bright and hard working with good grades so I am trying to find any and all schoarship opportunities available