QuestBridge National College Match

High school seniors from low-income households (typically under $65,000/year for a family of four with minimal assets) who earn primarily A's in the most challenging courses available, show intellectual curiosity and resilience, and are often the first generation to attend a four-year college.

• Current high school seniors in the U.S., plus U.S. citizens/permanent residents living abroad (international students outside the U.S. aren't eligible)
• Typically from households earning under $65,000/year (family of four) with minimal assets, or qualifying for free/reduced-price meals with financial hardship
• Typically earn primarily A's in the most challenging courses; often top 5–10% of class
• Often first-generation college students
• Demonstrate resilience, integrity, and motivation
• Test scores not required to apply

• If matched, early admission to a college partner with a full four-year scholarship (graduates described as debt-free)
• Access to a community of 35,000+ QuestBridge Scholars and Alumni, plus networking and career/grad-school opportunities

• Free online application via the QuestBridge portal
• Essays (college-specific supplemental prompts come after Finalist notification)
• Current high school transcript (unofficial accepted)
• Two teacher recommendations from core academic subjects
• School Report from the counselor; optional School Profile
• Financial documentation (tax returns / W-2s highly recommended; Finalists later complete FAFSA and CSS Profile)
• Standardized test reports if taken (not required to apply)

• Start the free application in late summer before senior year and gather transcript, financial docs, and any test scores early.
• Reach out to recommenders and your counselor well ahead of the deadline.
• Use essays to authentically convey your background, resilience, and motivations.
• Take the most rigorous courses your school offers — strong performance there is a key signal.
• If selected as a Finalist, research college partners carefully before ranking — the match is a binding early-admission commitment.

Finalists can rank up to 15 college partners for early admission and the full scholarship. In 2025, 2,550 Finalists were matched; 55 college partners participate. Additional requirements due by November 1; Match Day in early December. The match is binding.