essays for questbridge

How to Answer the Questbridge Essay Questions

• Sasha Chada
• September 11, 2023

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We’ve written about Questbridge before , and still recommend it as an application option for students who meet its eligibility requirements . The scholarships it offers are quite valuable, and grant a pathway to college most students would benefit greatly from. 

Our last article sought to provide a general overview of the Questbridge app, but this one will instead focus on the essays. Questbridge asks applicants to answer two types of essays; long and short answers. We’ll go over the prompts, what they’re asking, and how you can go about answering them. Let’s get started!

Questbridge’s Main Essay

This is named the Personal Essay, and is in many ways quite similar to the personal statement asked for by the Common App. Here is the prompt: 

• We are interested in learning more about the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations, and accomplished your successes. Please describe how the most influential factors and challenges in your life have shaped you into the person you are today. (800 words)

This is a very broad prompt, which is both good and bad. Good, because you can write about almost anything. Bad, because you can write about almost anything. This can be a headache when trying to pick a topic. We recommend our article on brainstorming if you want advice on that. 

Generally, however, this essay should be about a self-definitive topic. You want to tell readers something about how you define yourself, and how some event or impact has affected the person you are. This is true for the Common App’s personal statement as well, and any essay you write for Questbridge can be edited to serve as a personal statement. 

Here’s an example of what I mean by self-definitional. I wrote my own personal statement on my time spent dancing. This was an activity I devoted long hours to, but more than that, it was part of how I defined myself. I was a dancer; dance was more than what I did, it was who I was. 

This essay does not need to be about one of your activities, but should center in some way on who you are, and what has made you you. We realize that this can be a tall order; check out some of our guides to the personal statement for more advice on how to approach an essay like this. 

Questbridge’s Second Essay

Questbridge asks for a second long essay. There are four potential prompts for this, and it has a 500 word limit. Here are the prompts: 

• 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?
• Describe an experience that caused you to change your perspective and/or opinion.
• What aspect of your current community do you admire and wish to bring to your future college community?
• Inclusivity involves embracing diversity and working to include people with backgrounds and experiences different from your own. Describe an experience where you have played a role in fostering inclusivity.

There are two things you should consider when choosing which prompt you should answer for this. The first is which stories do you have that will be most impactful, and the second is how best you can complement the story you told in your personal essay. 

Of course, you want to tell whichever story best shows off who you are, and what you will bring to a college. The first prompt allows you to show off your intellectual vitality , the second your willingness to learn from others, and the third and fourth how you will integrate with and contribute to a diverse and vibrant college community. Which of these you have the best story for depends on your own circumstances and experiences.

Most students, however, will have options for each of these prompts. You are all excited about learning, contribute to your community, and have interesting and unique points of view. What you should then consider is this essay in context. How does the information you include in this essay add to what you showed admissions officers in your personal essay?

Questbridge, like colleges, judges applications holistically , trying to create a full picture of who you are. This second long essay is a chance to show them (and admissions officers) a second facet of your character. You should avoid repeating any information you included in your personal essay in this one. 

Questbridge’s Short Answer Essays

In addition to the two longer essay questions, Questbridge asks a number of short answer questions, ranging from 35 to 200 words in length. This is far more essays, as an application, than the Common App or Coalition App. In turn, however, many of the colleges you can apply to through Questbridge require fewer supplemental essays, since the application itself supplies so much information about you. 

Questbridge also only allows you to input five activities, in contrast to the ten allowed by the Common App. These additional essay questions are intended to let you delve more in depth into what you do outside of the classroom, and can be a big help for students who participated in more than five activities in high school. 

We’ll go through each question, and cover what it’s asking, and how to answer it.

Tell us about one of your proudest achievements or moments and what it says about you. (200 words)

This question is open ended and straightforward. What accomplishments you care about most says something about you; what you value, and what you have worked towards. This can be either an extracurricular accomplishment, or something you achieved in your school work. What’s important is not just what you did, but why it matters to you. 

In your response, cover both the accomplishment in detail, scope and scale and the effort you put in, and why this accomplishment was important to you. You want to show readers your values, and what you care about celebrating success in. 

If you could meet a character from a book or a historical figure, who would it be and what would you ask them? (200 words)

This is again a chance to show off your values and personality. We recommend answering this question completely honestly. Don’t try to craft an answer based on what you think admissions officers want to hear, instead write an answer that shows off the best parts of you, and where your interests lie. 

We do recommend looking for less common answers, or responses that readers have not seen hundreds of times before. American presidents, protagonists of popular novels, and the most famous historical figures are often brought up for topics like this. If you do want to meet with George Washington or Julius Caesar, then that’s perfectly fine, but you should have something unique and interesting to say about why. 

Very Short Answer Questions

All of the following questions are to be answered in 35 words: 

• What is your favorite subject to study, and why?
• What are your favorite books and/or movies?
• What is your favorite source of inspiration?
• How do you spend a typical weekend?
• What compliment are you most proud of receiving and who gave it to you?
• After a challenging experience, how do you rejuvenate?
• What would you contribute to your future college campus community?

You may answer these in either sentences or lists as you find appropriate. We recommend answering the question about favorite books or movies as a list; it parallels Columbia’s list essays . You likely won’t be able to list every book or movie you enjoy, so try to curate a list that shows off your range of interests.

You should attempt to answer the rest of these questions earnestly and honestly. You do still want to show yourself in a positive light, but this is a good chance to show admissions officers little interesting glimpses of your life and personality. One student we worked with unwinds after a long and challenging experience with a nap; there’s nothing wrong with this, and answering in this way shows an aspect of their character, and how they handle the responsibilities they have assumed. 

For each question, spend one sentence answering it directly, and another providing context or details which expand upon your answer. It is not enough to merely say what your favorite source of inspiration is; give some reasons why and how it inspires you. Questbridge is giving you a wonderful opportunity to introduce yourself to admissions officers, and you should do your best to take advantage of it. 

The final question, about how you will contribute, is the most difficult to answer briefly. Many colleges ask questions like this as a full supplemental essay , which we refer to as the community essay. For this, we recommend focusing on one or two tangible ways you will contribute to a campus community, and exploring each in a sentence. Maybe you’ll bond with your roommates over home cooked meals, or participate in student government, or volunteer your time, or add your talents to artistic endeavors, or bring the school athletic glory; there are many ways to contribute. You need to explore what you bring to the table. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the essay questions asked by Questbridge give you a lot of room to explore what matters to you, and where your interests lie. This is intentional, as is the open endedness of the questions. Questbridge is meant to provide students who may not have as many resources at their disposal a clear path to college, and part of this is eliciting the kind of information admissions officers want to know. 

Admissions officers want to know who you are, what you care about, and how you’ve spent your time. They want to know what challenges you’ve faced, and how your obligations may have impacted your academic journey. The essay questions are meant to explore who you are as a person and student, because that’s what admissions officers want to see. 

Of course, writing college essays, even ones which strive to be straightforward, is quite difficult. Defining yourself, and exploring your interests is not an easy task for many students. If you are looking for guidance answering Questbridge’s essay questions, or have other concerns about the application process, consider applying to our Laurel Scholars program . We’ve helped many students realize their collegiate dreams, and are always happy to hear from you.

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What You Need to Know When Applying to QuestBridge

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Aja Altenhof in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

How to apply to questbridge.

What Programs Does QuestBridge Offer?

The Pros and Cons of the College Match Program

Applying to College as a QuestBridge Finalist

QuestBridge is a non-profit program which streamlines the college application process for low-income and first-generation students. This article will explain how QuestBridge works and how you can become a part of it.

QuestBridge is a competitive program which provides selected scholars with college application assistance, including a special application portal and one-on-one advising. In order to apply to the program, you must submit:

• Your academic activities
• Household and financial background
• Two essays and a handful of short answer questions
• A school report from your high school counselor
• A school profile – this is optional, but recommended
• Your current high school transcript 
• Any standardized test score that you want to report, including SAT, ACT, AP, or IB exam scores

Submitting a QuestBridge application is free, as is the program itself.

What Programs Does QuestBridge Offer?  

QuestBridge offers two programs: the College Match and the College Prep Program. 

The College Prep Program 

The College Prep Program will provide you with application guidance through a variety of resources. These include: access to the network of QuestBridge scholars and alumni, an invitation to an admissions conference, summer camp opportunities, and grant money. The College Prep Program does not limit your college list in any way, but rather will give you guidance to craft applications to any school.

The Match Program

The Match Program does not provide admissions guidance, but it does change the way you can apply to colleges. The Match Program allows QuestBridge scholars to apply Early Decision to up to 15 schools. This involves a binding element — applicants rank each school based on their interest, and they must accept the offer of the highest ranked school on their list they get accepted to.

The biggest pro of College Match is that if you match with one of the schools on your list, they will give you a full-ride scholarship. You will also receive an admissions decision in early December, which is much earlier than when springtime Regular Decision acceptances come out.

The main con to the Match Program is that there’s a limited list of Match schools. Only 48 schools in the US partner with QuestBridge as Match schools, and several selective schools notably are not QuestBridge partners. These include Harvard and Cornell. Since Match Program scholars can only apply early to Match schools, the program will limit your options.

Applying to College As a QuestBridge Finalist

QuestBridge Finalists — or those who are selected for a QuestBridge program — have several things to consider as they apply to college through the program. The first is whether they want to apply for both QuestBridge programs or only one. Either option is possible, and those who were rejected from the College Prep program can still apply to College Match.

College Match scholars are given the benefit of being able to apply to multiple schools Early Decision. However, they should rank their colleges carefully to make sure that they maximize their odds of getting accepted to their top pick.

Lastly, it is possible to apply to colleges Regular Decision as a QuestBridge Finalist. This eliminates the pressure of the Match Program to rank colleges, and ensures that you will not have to decline an offer from your dream school because of another Early Decision acceptance. 

QuestBridge Regular Decision applicants are not as likely to get full-ride scholarships as Match applicants, but they still receive many of the same benefits. For one, they do not have to pay application fees to any QuestBridge partner college. The other plus is that QuestBridge applicants are guaranteed to receive aid packages that meet 100% of their demonstrated financial need — for many applicants, these packages are close in value to full-ride scholarships. 

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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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• QuestBridge

QuestBridge is a platform that connects the nation's brightest students from low-income backgrounds with leading institutions of higher education. 

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Are you participating in the QuestBridge National College Match? If so, then read below for more details on the application process.

High school students entering their senior year who are considering applying to Penn through QuestBridge , should begin the process with the National College Match Application. 

• Are a QuestBridge Finalist
• Are participating in the National College match but have chosen not to rank Penn as one of your ranked schools

You are able to apply as a Regular Decision applicant to Penn. However, if you receive a binding match from one of your ranked schools, you must withdraw your application to Penn. The Regular Decision deadline is  January 5th .

If you would like to apply using your QuestBridge application, you must request to forward your application to Penn using the Regular Decision Form provided by QuestBridge. You must also fill out the Penn Supplement, which will be available on your Penn Applicant Portal once your application has been received by Penn in mid-December.

If you don’t want to use your QuestBridge application, you can apply to Penn through Common App or the Coalition Application. You’re also eligible for a fee waiver. While filling out either application, you will be asked if you are a QuestBridge applicant and then prompted to enter your 9-digit QuestBridge ID number in order to waive the fee. 

If Penn is your top choice, please consider applying to Penn through the Early Decision program.

Penn’s grant-based financial aid program will meet your family’s demonstrated financial need. QuestBridge students will generally be considered for a four-year Match Scholarship only in those cases where the expected parent contribution is less than $4500, and it appears unlikely that it will change over time.

Please note: Penn’s policies for Early Decision applicants is a binding process. To apply Early Decision to Penn using your QuestBridge Application, you must log into your Penn Applicant Portal and complete the Penn Supplement to the QuestBridge Application. This supplement is due  November 1 at 11:59 pm , your local time.

You may also apply  Regular Decision . Regular Decision Applicants must submit the required materials by  January 5.  If you choose to apply Regular Decision, you can do so using your QuestBridge Application. You will also need to fill out the Penn Supplement, which will be available on your Penn Applicant Portal.

If you don’t want to use your QuestBridge Application for the Early or Regular Decision process, you will also be eligible for a fee waiver through Common App or the Coalition Application. While filling out either application, you will be asked if you are a QuestBridge applicant and then prompted to enter your 9-digit QuestBridge ID number in order to waive the fee. 

All non-participating finalists will receive an email from Penn with instructions on how to access the Penn Applicant Portal shortly after finalists are announced by QuestBridge in October.

Submitted a QuestBridge Application

And were not selected by QuestBridge as a finalist

You can still apply to Penn either  Early Decision or Regular Decision . Please note: Penn’s policies for each Decision process and the deadlines for each. The Early Decision deadline is  November 1  and the Regular Decision deadline is  January 5 .

All non-finalists will receive an email from Penn with instructions on how to access the Penn Applicant Portal shortly after finalists decisions are announced by QuestBridge in October.

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QuestBridge Applicants

Boston College is excited to be a part of QuestBridge, a highly respected nonprofit program that helps high-achieving, low-income students gain admission and scholarships to the country’s top-ranked colleges and universities. This partnership aligns with Boston College's values as a Jesuit, Catholic university.

Interested students can fill out the QuestBridge application, at questbridge.org, which opens in late summer prior to a student’s senior year of high school.

Katie Phung

Associate Director, Office of Undergraduate Admission 617-552-3100 questbridge@bc.edu

Visit Our Questbridge Site

top 20 in the Nation

Graduation rate among national universities for Pell Grant recipients (low-income students)

Match Requirements

Deadline: November 1

The following items are required in addition to the QuestBridge Application.

Boston College QuestBridge Questionnaire

Upon receiving your National College Match Application, you will receive instructions to complete the Boston College QuestBridge Questionnaire. This questionnaire is required in order for us to complete your application.

Please note that as part of the QuestBridge Questionnaire, only those applying to the Human Centered Engineering major will be required to submit the Boston College Writing Supplement . Y ou can find the essay prompt  here  (option #5).

High School Transcript

Please have your high school counselor submit your official transcript to   bcapplicant@bc.edu . If your counselor uploaded your transcript as part of your National College Match application, you do not need to resubmit it.

Standardized Testing

Boston college will maintain a test-optional policy for first year applicants during the 2023-2024 admission cycle.   learn more here ..

Students who are unable to submit standardized test results, or who choose not to, will not be disadvantaged in our selection process. In reviewing applications that do not include standardized test results, the Admission Committee will place greater emphasis on other required application credentials including academic performance, rigor of coursework, placement in class, personal statements, recommendations, and co-curricular involvement.

For those students who would like to submit standardized testing results, we accept the ACT or SAT and don't require any Optional Writing portion. If you submit multiple scores, we will superscore the tests for our evaluation and we will use the scores as one component in our holistic review of applications. If sending official scores from a testing agency, do NOT use the rush reporting service. Boston College will accept self-reported ACT or SAT test scores for QuestBridge students participating in the National College Match process only. For those who choose to submit test scores, official ACT or SAT score reports will be required prior to enrolling at Boston College. If the cost of sending test scores from the ACT or College Board would present a financial burden, please have your guidance or college counselor email a copy of your score report to admission@bc.edu. We also accept test scores that are reported on official high school transcripts.

Students who wish to further quantify their academic successes are welcome to note non-required credentials such as Advanced Placement scores or predicted IB scores. 

SAT code: 3083

Act code: 1788, optional credentials for the arts.

Artistic portfolios can be submitted through SlideRoom . As a QuestBridge applicant, please select the QuestBridge category followed by the application round and corresponding artistic submission for studio art, music, and/or theater. If you are applying as part of the National College Match, please select the QuestBridge Early Decision I round for your artistic submission. 

Please note that only students who intend to major in Studio Art can submit artistic samples/portfolios through SlideRoom. If not majoring in Studio Art, please highlight any art involvement (such as photography, painting, drawing, ceramics, digital media, and video) within the Activities or Additional Information sections of the QuestBridge Application or the Common Application. 

Students with a background in theatre and/or music who plan to be involved in music and theater productions at Boston College are invited to showcase their talents by submitting artistic samples via SlideRoom, regardless of their intended major.  If you do not intend to formally pursue these artistic talents at Boston College, but you would like to tell us about past experiences you've had in the arts, we encourage you to do so within the Activities or Additional Information sections of the QuestBridge Application or the Common Application.

All materials must be received via SlideRoom by November 1 for QuestBridge National College Match candidates and Early Decision I candidates. For Early Decision II and Regular Decision candidates, the deadline is January 2.  Submissions received after these dates will not be reviewed. Please note that there is a $5 fee to submit your artistic samples. Students applying as QuestBridge National College Match applicants with Boston College will automatically be reimbursed the $5 submission fee. Students applying outside of the Match process via Early Decision II and Regular Decision may request a fee waiver by emailing Linda Galvin ( linda.galvin@bc.edu ) if the fee poses a financial hardship.

2024–2025 FAFSA

FAFSA code: 002128

The FAFSA will not be available until December 2023. Please complete the FAFSA as soon as it is available and submit it directly to Boston College.

U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens. Canadian and other international students do not complete the FAFSA.

Visit the FAFSA website

Learn more about eligible non-citizen status

Please note that undocumented student applicants, with or without Temporary Protected Status (TPS), will not need to submit the FAFSA.

CSS Profile

2024-2025 CSS Profile

CSS code: 3083

Available: October 1

Select Early Decision as your admission application type.

If your parents own a business or farm:

• Submit the CSS Profile Business/Farm Supplement.

If your parents are divorced or separated :

• Both of your biological/adoptive parents must complete their own CSS Profile with different log-in credentials. It is highly recommended that the student and custodial parent start the CSS Profile first, as the non-custodial cannot submit information until the student selects a school that requires the submission of non-custodial parent information.
• Your non-custodial parent must submit the online Non-Custodial Profile after creating a separate College Board account. 
• If you don't have any contact with your non-custodial parent, then you may submit a request to waive the requirement of their financial information.
• You can download the Non-Custodial Parent Waiver Petition directly from the College Board site

Non-Custodial Parent Waiver Petition 

2022 Federal Tax Returns

Both the custodial and non-custodial parent, if applicable, must submit copies of their 2022 federal tax returns with all schedules, attachments, W-2 forms, and other earning statements. 

The Match Process

• Non-Finalists, Non-Match Finalists & Non-Participating Finalists

Financial Aid

Finalists who choose to rank Boston College in QuestBridge’s National College Match apply to Boston College as Early Decision I, submitting their application and all supporting documents by November 1st. Applicants who choose this option are considered for a match with Boston College, which would include an official binding offer of admission. Finalists who match with Boston College will be notified of their admission decision and scholarship award by early December. 

Finalists who don’t match with Boston College, or a binding QuestBridge partner school, will have their application automatically moved to the Regular Decision application pool. Students must also fill out the Boston College Applicant Verification form, by January 2, to indicate if they are interested in remaining a candidate for admission to BC through Regular Decision or if they would like to move their application to the Early Decision II application pool. Please note that Early Decision II is a binding admission process and also requires applicants to submit the Early Decision Agreement form, which will be provided to you within your Applicant Status Portal, once you confirm your interest. Students who are no longer interested in being considered for admission to Boston College may request to have their application withdrawn via the Applicant Verification Form or by  email . Any finalist that matches with a QuestBridge partner school through a binding match commitment, will be automatically withdrawn.

Non-Finalists

Students who are not selected as a QuestBridge Finalist may still apply to BC through Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision through the Common Application. Please visit the QuestBridge Non-Finalists page for more information. 

Non-Match Finalists

Finalists who did not match with Boston College through the National College Match, nor with any other binding partner school, are eligible to be considered via Early Decision II or Regular Decision. These students must fill out the Boston College Applicant Verification form by January 2. Please note that Early Decision II is a binding admission process and also requires applicants to submit the Early Decision Agreement form. 

Non-Participating Finalists

QuestBridge Finalists who choose not to participate in the National College Match process may apply to BC through Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision. You are encouraged to submit the Common Application with the Boston College Supplemental Essay. However, you may reuse one of your QuestBridge essays for the Common Application essay. 

Boston College is dedicated to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students that are United States citizens and  eligible non-citizens . All QuestBridge National College Match applicants to Boston College will be considered for the Match Scholarship provided they submit the FAFSA (Code: 002128), CSS/Financial Aid Profile (Code: 3083), and federal income tax returns. 

QuestBridge students not participating in the match process at Boston College will be considered for need-based aid, provided they submit the FAFSA (Code: 002128), CSS/Financial Aid Profile (Code: 3083), and federal income tax returns.  If you would like to be considered for the Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program, Boston College’s academic merit-based scholarship program, you must submit your Early Decision or Regular Decision application by November 1. All applicants who submit their application by this date are automatically considered.

Options Following The Match Process

Early decision ii.

Finalists who don't match with Boston College, or a binding college partner, can be considered for Early Decision II. If you're interested in this option, you must submit the Boston College Applicant Verification form through your Applicant Status Portal by January 2. Note that this is a binding admission process and also requires applicants to complete the Early Decision Agreement form, which will be provided to you within your Applicant Status Portal, once you confirm that you would like to be moved to our Early Decision II review process.

More About Early Decision

Regular Decision

Any finalist who doesn't match with Boston College will automatically be moved to the Regular Decision applicant pool. Finalists interested in remaining a candidate for admission must submit the Boston College Applicant Verification form by January 2.

If you no longer wish to be considered for admission to Boston College and want your application withdrawn, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an application fee.

There is no application fee for those students applying through the National College Match and therefore no application fee for students who send their QuestBridge Application to Boston College. For Finalists applying with the Common Application, we will also waive the application fee. For all other students, if submitting the $80 application fee represents a financial hardship for you or your family, and you are a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident, you may apply for a fee waiver. Please do so directly through the Common Application or have your high school counselor submit a request on your behalf to:   admission@bc.edu .

Should I select Early Decision or Regular Decision when applying to Boston College to be considered for the National College Match?

Please select Early Decision under Entry Term by November 1 to be considered for the College Match process.

What happens after you receive my application from QuestBridge?

Once we receive your application, you’ll receive an email with your login credentials for your Applicant Status Portal, which will allow you to see documents that have been received and those that are pending. 

Are there any other documents that I need to submit in addition to my completed QuestBridge application?

For students participating in the National College Match, you will be required to complete the Boston College QuestBridge Questionnaire. Please note that those who are applying to the Human Centered Engineering major will also be required to submit a supplemental essay. You can find the essay prompt here  (option #5).   If you participate in the Match process and don't match with Boston College, you will be asked to complete the Boston College Applicant Verification Form. We'll provide you access to these forms upon receiving your application and these forms are required to complete your application.

Are fee waivers provided for the CSS Profile?

Yes. You can learn more about accessing a CSS Profile fee waiver directly from the College Board website here .

Are interviews required or available as part of the College Match Process for QuestBridge applicants?

Interviews are not part of our evaluation process and thus neither available nor required for QuestBridge applicants.

Do I qualify to apply for the QuestBridge National College Match at BC if I am an international citizen?

Boston College is unable to consider international citizens studying in the U.S. for the National College Match.

Can undocumented/students with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) apply to the QuestBridge National College Match at BC?

Yes, we will consider undocumented students (with or without TPS status) for the Match process, independent of their citizenship status.

Will you accept self-reported test scores as part of my application?

Boston College will be test-optional for the 2023-2024 admission cycle. Therefore, students will have the option to determine if they would like to submit their test scores or not. Students who are unable to submit standardized test results, or who choose not to, will not be disadvantaged in our selection process.

For those that would still like to submit their test scores, we will only accept self-reported ACT or SAT test scores for QuestBridge students participating in the National College Match process. Note that, for those who choose to self-report their scores, official ACT or SAT score reports will be required prior to enrolling at Boston College.

Do you offer fly-in programs for prospective applicants?

Unfortunately, we don't offer fly-in programs for prospective students, but you can connect with us in these ways:

• Sign up for our mailing list to receive more information about BC and upcoming webinars.
• Register for one of our Eagle Eye Campus Visits, Campus Tours, or Conversations with a Current Student.
• Connect with one of our QuestBridge Scholars with your questions about BC.

Sign Up for Our Mailing List

Schedule a Visit

Contact the BC QuestBridge Scholars Network

Will BC accept the QuestBridge application in lieu of the Common Application?

For the National College Match, we accept only the QuestBridge Application. For students applying outside of the Match process, we require that you submit the Common Application.

Is the QuestBridge Match Process binding?

Yes, this process is binding—meaning that if selected through the Match process, you will be expected to enroll at Boston College. You will also be required to withdraw your applications from all other colleges and universities to which you have applied.

How many students will BC select through the Match Process?

For the 2022-2023 application cycle, Boston College selected 90 students through the National College Match Process.

Is off-campus housing covered by the scholarship?

As part of the Match Scholarship, Boston College will provide four years of on-campus housing. Therefore, off-campus housing is not covered.

Which financial aid documents are necessary if I ranked BC through the National College Match process?

We require both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile (including the Noncustodial Parent Statement, if necessary). BC's FAFSA code is 002128 and CSS Profile code is 3083. In addition, we also require 2022 W2 and Federal Tax Returns. The priority filing date is November 1. Please note that undocumented student applicants, with or without Temporary Protected Status (TPS), will not need to submit the FAFSA.

Applicants must submit all financial aid documents using the College Board's IDOC service .

Please go to Applying for Aid to learn more about the required financial aid application materials and the process for submitting your documents.

Non-Match Finalists and Non-Participating Finalists

I’m a questbridge finalist who ranked boston college for the national college match, but i didn't match with bc. what happens to my application .

All finalists who match with a QuestBridge partner school will automatically be withdrawn. For those remaining students, who aren't selected as part of the Match process with Boston College, they will have their status changed to Non-Match Finalist and their application will be considered as part of the Regular Decision applicant pool. All Non-Match Finalists interested in remaining a candidate for admission must submit the Boston College Applicant Verification form by January 2. Students may also request to be considered for Early Decision II. 

If I want to be considered for Early Decision II, what are my next steps?

Finalists who don’t match with Boston College can request to be considered for Early Decision II. Finalists interested in this option must submit the Boston College Applicant Verification form by January 2. Please note that since this is a binding admission process, students will also be required to submit the Early Decision Agreement form, which will be provided to you within your Applicant Status Portal once you confirm that you would like to be moved to our Early Decision II review process. Prior to making this decision, we encourage you to review our Early Decision policy  to learn more. 

Do I need to complete the Common Application to be considered for admission to Boston College if I was not selected through the College Match process?

No, you don’t have to complete the Common Application to be considered. We will simply move your QuestBridge application to our Regular Decision pool or you may request to be moved to our Early Decision II pool.

I didn’t match through the College Match process and I no longer want to be considered for admission to Boston College. What are my next steps?

Please email admission@bc.edu to have your application withdrawn.

If I don’t participate in the Match process or if I'm not named a finalist, may I still apply to be considered for admission at Boston College?

Yes! QuestBridge finalists who don’t participate in the match process with Boston College (non-participating finalists) or those QuestBridge applicants who are not named a finalist (non-finalists) will be required to submit the Common Application and Boston College Supplemental Essay.  For non-finalists, please visit the  QuestBridge Non-Finalists  page for more information. Students can apply to Boston College through Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision. Please review our  Early Decision policy .

What financial aid documents are required?

Applicants must submit all financial aid documents using the College Board's IDOC service.

Who should I contact with any financial aid related questions?

Please email your Financial Aid Advisor , assigned by the first letter of your last name, with any specific questions.

How can I track my financial aid status?

Once we receive your application, you'll receive an email with your login credentials for your applicant portal. Upon logging in, you'll see documents that have been received and those that are pending.

What will my financial aid package look like if I’m selected through the Match process?

No parental contribution or student loans will be expected toward the cost of attendance for Boston College Match Scholarship recipients. However, all students are expected to hold a work study job on campus and a summer job each year, beginning with the summer prior to their first year, and use those earnings toward their college expenses (i.e. books, travel, personal expenses). You can view more details  here .

How are my travel costs to/from Boston College accounted for?

Boston College adds a travel alowance to the estimate of the total cost of attendance. Students are expected to cover their own travel expenses using a combination of summer work expectation, savings, and/or work-study funds. Boston College will not reimburse or provide direct funds for travel to and from campus. Students are also able to take loan funds to assist with travel expenses. 

What is Federal Work-Study and how do I obtain a job?

Federal Work-Study is a type of self-help financial aid that is awarded based on financial need. Students may earn up to the amount awarded through their work-study position. It is important to note that funds earned from a work-study position are paid directly to the student and do not reduce the student account bill. Work-study positions are typically posted just before the start of the fall semester. Students can search the job database through the Student Services Student Employment web page at www.bc.edu/studentemployment .

Are there any merit awards that I can qualify for as a non-finalist or non-participating finalist?

The Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program is an academic merit-based scholarship program, covering full tuition for 18 qualified applicants each year. There’s no separate application to be considered —both Early Decision and Regular Decision candidates are eligible for scholarship consideration as long as their completed application is submitted by the November 1 priority scholarship deadline. For non-finalists/non-participating finalists interested in being considered for the Gabelli Presidential Scholarship, you will be required to submit the Common Application.

How would outside scholarships impact my Match scholarship or aid award at Boston College?

All students are encouraged to seek out outside scholarships to help with the cost of their education. To ensure the outside scholarship will benefit the student as much as possible, it is our policy to first replace the loan, if applicable, and work-study portion of the student’s BC financial aid package; however, total grant funding (including outside scholarships) cannot exceed the student’s total demonstrated institutional need. If the amount of outside scholarship received exceeds the amount of loan and work-study, then the student’s BC grant funds are reduced to meet their demonstrated institutional need. Unearned funding such as state grants will reduce BC grant funds dollar-for-dollar within the financial aid package.

What are the requirements needed to maintain my scholarship?

All students receiving financial aid from Boston College - including Match Scholarship recipients - must resubmit financial aid documents every year. Students are also expected to maintain satisfactory academic progress.

If I’m not admitted through the Match process, what kind of financial aid is available?

Boston College is dedicated to meeting the full demonstrated need of all United States citizens and eligible non-citizens that apply for financial aid.

More About Financial Aid

Support/Resources

Does boston college have a questbridge scholars network (qsn) chapter.

Founded in 2021, the Boston College QuestBridge Scholars Network Chapter, EagleBridge, provides a welcoming and supportive community for its members. QuestBridge Scholars can engage in chapter activities, apply for leadership positions, and participate in opportunities offered nationwide through QuestBridge, including access to QuestBridge Alumni Association resources.

EagleBridge’s mission is to compassionately serve the QuestBridge community at Boston College by partnering with several offices and student organizations on campus that work directly with first-year, low-income students to form an understanding and robust community for historically underrepresented students. 

A budding chapter, EagleBridge’s cornerstone is mentorship, social activities, and service opportunities. In addition to group activities, there are always opportunities for underclassmen to get involved in chapter leadership and initiatives. Each year, newly appointed chapter leaders and Executive Board members work together to plan new programming to ensure chapter members feel welcomed and engaged.

Contact: EagleBridge

Instagram:   eaglebridge_qsn

Are only students admitted through the National College Match eligible to be a part of EagleBridge?

Absolutely not! Any student, whether associated with QuestBridge or not, who shares a similar interest, background, or vision is welcome to be a part of EagleBridge.

What other kind of support services are there for students that are the first in their family to attend college, who hail from limited financial means, and/or who are coming from an underrepresented ethnic/cultural group?

Fostering diversity and accessibility on campus is accomplished through partnerships with multiple campus organizations, such as the Gateway Scholars Program, Learning to Learn Office, McNair Scholars Program, Montserrat Office, and Thea Bowman AHANA and Intercultural Center.

Additionally, Boston College offers various mentoring and retreat programs through our Center for Student Formation  and the  Office of First Year Experience , as well as  residential communities , designed to welcome and support first year students.

More About Diversity on Campus

QuestBridge

Tufts is proud to partner with QuestBridge , a national nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting high-achieving, low-income students with highly selective colleges and universities. Each year, Tufts admits QuestBridge-affiliated students through the binding National College Match and through our three application rounds: Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision.

The QuestBridge National College Match application becomes available in late summer and is typically due in late September. The National College Match is open to U.S. citizens and Permanent Residents and students, regardless of citizenship status, currently attending high school in the United States. Students who are selected as Finalists and “match” with Tufts will receive a comprehensive, four-year financial aid package with no student loans. Finalists who are not matched with a binding college, as well as non-Finalists who submit the QuestBridge application to Tufts, will receive a financial aid package that meets 100% of demonstrated need, if admitted.

For additional information about the application process and requirements for QuestBridge-affiliated students, please review the Frequently Asked Questions below, as well as Tufts’ partner page on the QuestBridge website.

QuestBridge FAQs

How do i begin my questbridge application, i am a questbridge finalist interested in ranking tufts in the national college match. what materials do i need to send to tufts, does tufts require questbridge applicants to submit supplemental materials, what are the financial aid application requirements for questbridge students, can i apply to tufts through the national college match if i am not a us citizen, is the national college match binding at tufts, i am a questbridge finalist, but was not matched with tufts. can i still apply, how does the application process work for undocumented and deferred action for childhood arrivals (daca) students, how does financial aid work for questbridge students who are admitted through edi, edii, or rd, can i have an interview if i apply through the national college match, will tufts accept standardized test scores taken in october or november of my senior year, is there an application fee, who can i contact for more information.

It's easy! To learn more about QuestBridge and get started on your application, just click  here . The National College Match application is due in late September.

A completed application to Tufts through the National College Match will consist of the QuestBridge application, one counselor recommendation letter, one academic teacher recommendation letter, an official high school transcript, and senior year progress report/grades once available. Beginning with applicants for fall 2024, Tufts has renewed a three-year SAT/ACT-optional policy. Students may choose whether to submit the SAT or ACT for consideration. We also ask that students who rank Tufts indicate their school/program using the QuestBridge Finalists Intended Program Form available in your Tufts applicant status portal .

See below for details about the materials required to apply for financial aid.

QuestBridge Finalist and Non-Finalist applicants who were NOT selected during the National College Match process are required to submit responses to two Tufts-specific short-answer questions. For these students, an online QuestBridge/Tufts ED/RD Applicant Form will be included in your  Tufts applicant status portal . You will receive an email to set up this applicant status portal once your QuestBridge application has been received by Tufts. Additionally, applicants should submit the QuestBridge Midyear Report as soon as first trimester or first semester grades are available.

Like all first-year applicants who are seeking financial aid, QuestBridge applicants should complete the CSS Profile and upload copies of their parents’ 2022 income tax returns to the College Board's IDOC portal. U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens should complete the FAFSA. Additionally, students with a Social Security Number should provide this information to the Tufts Financial Aid office using the secure link in their applicant status portal labeled “Add or Update your Social Security Number.” This will help the Financial Aid office match your QuestBridge application with your financial aid materials.

Yes. All students attending high school in the United States are eligible to apply through the QuestBridge National College Match.

Yes. If you match with Tufts University, you are accepting a binding offer of admission and are required to withdraw any applications submitted to any other colleges or universities.

Yes, we welcome your application if you did not match with another QuestBridge partner college through a binding offer of admission. You will need to submit the Tufts/QuestBridge ED/RD Applicant Form to be considered for admission. This form will ask you to indicate your academic interests, select your application round, and submit responses to two Tufts-specific short-answer questions. The form will be included as a link in your Tufts applicant status portal. You will receive an email to set up the applicant status portal once your QuestBridge application has been received by Tufts. Applicants should also work with their school counselors to have their first trimester/semester grades submitted as soon as they become available. You do not need to submit the Common Application or Coalition Application in addition to your QuestBridge application. QuestBridge Finalists who pursue Early Decision will also need to submit the  Early Decision Agreement , which must be signed by the student, parent/guardian, and school counselor. 

Tufts welcomes all undergraduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status. Undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students who apply to Tufts are treated identically to any other U.S. citizen or permanent resident in their high school. Undocumented and DACA students should follow the same application procedure as other domestic applicants to Tufts. Tufts meets 100% of the demonstrated need of all admitted students, regardless of citizenship status. While procedures for financial aid vary between domestic and international applicants, undocumented and DACA students are considered for domestic, need-based financial like any other U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Because federal financial aid is not available for undocumented and DACA students, Tufts provides institutional financial aid in its place. Students with undocumented status must submit the College Board's CSS Profile. More information about the application process for undocumented students is available on our  website .

Exactly the same! Tufts’ financial aid packages cover 100% of the demonstrated financial need of every admitted student, regardless of citizenship status, throughout your four years. This policy makes Tufts a very affordable option for low-income families, regardless of the student’s method of application. For families with an annual income below $60,000, Tufts will not include loans in our financial aid packages. We encourage you to use the MyinTuition Quick College Cost Estimator to learn more about your eligibility for financial aid at Tufts.

You will have to reapply for financial aid every year, and every student is expected to contribute toward their own expenses (such as books, travel, or personal expenses) from their summer income or part-time work during the school year. For the National College Match process, Tufts is only able to match with QuestBridge Finalists whose completed financial aid documents qualify them for a $0 parent contribution according to Tufts’ financial aid policies. To learn about financial aid and the related deadlines, please visit the website of our Financial Aid office here .

Unfortunately, the tight timeline of the National College Match does not allow for Finalists to participate in Tufts' optional alumni interview process. Students who do not match with Tufts and wish to be considered in Early Decision II or Regular Decision are welcome to request an optional alumni interview. In your applicant status portal, there will be a link to request an interview once Tufts has received your application.

No. Unfortunately, October ACT scores and November SAT scores will not arrive before admissions decisions are made for the QuestBridge National College Match process. However, students who do not match with Tufts and wish to be considered in Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision may self-report additional test scores if they wish.

There is no fee to apply to the QuestBridge National College Match and therefore no application fee for students who send their QuestBridge application to Tufts. For students applying with the Common Application or Coalition Application, you may request an application fee waiver if the $75 application fee represents a financial hardship. Please indicate your request for an application fee waiver within your online application; this waiver request will be verified by your school counselor

Questions about the QuestBridge application process or Tufts’ partnership with QuestBridge can be directed to Sean Ashburn, Associate Director of Admissions, by emailing [email protected].

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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The questbridge national college match application.

The QuestBridge National College Match Application is one of three ways to apply to Yale for first-year admission. 

Yale is a partner with QuestBridge , a national non-profit program that connects bright, motivated low-income students with educational and scholarship opportunities at some of the nation’s best colleges. Students who wish to apply to QuestBridge Partner Institutions using the QuestBridge National College Match Application must first submit their application materials to QuestBridge and be selected as Finalists in the  QuestBridge National College Match . Students selected as Finalists have the option to rank Yale in QuestBridge National College Match or to apply directly for single-choice early action or regular decision.

Students admitted to Yale through the QuestBridge match round are expected to withdraw their other applications and matriculate at Yale. Students admitted through single-choice early action or regular decision are not required to matriculate at Yale and will have until May 1 to reply to their offer of admission. Read more about applying to Yale through QuestBridge .

The QuestBridge National College Match Application is one of three ways to apply to Yale for first-year admission. Yale has no preference for one type of application over another. Submit one -  and only one  - application per admissions cycle.

Reasons why the QuestBridge Application might be right for you:

• The QuestBridge Application includes questions that allow students from low-income households to discuss their backgrounds and unique circumstances.
• The QuestBridge National College Match Application is free. Students named QuestBridge Finalists are not required to pay application fees to be considered for first-year admission to Yale.
• The QuestBridge Application makes it easy for students to apply to multiple Partner Institutions  with the same application and no school-specific questions or essays. 
• For students who are named Finalists, the QuestBridge organization automatically forwards teacher recommendations and transcripts to Yale with the National College Match Application. To complete an application, QuestBridge Finalists only need to submit the Yale QuestBridge Questionnaire via the Yale Admissions Status Portal.   
• Students who rank Yale through the QuestBridge National College Match will find out if they have matched with Yale in early December. Applications that are not matched with Yale or a binding QuestBridge Partner Institution can be considered again in Yale’s Regular Decision round if the applicant chooses.

The QuestBridge National College Match Application is made available over the summer. To learn more visit  www.questbridge.org

Read more about the Coalition Application Read more about the Common Application

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QuestBridge

QuestBridge is a non-profit organization which identifies high-achieving, low-income students, assists them with the college search and application process and works to connect them to educational opportunities at a range of partner colleges and universities. Columbia has been a QuestBridge partner school for more than 15 years, and we are proud to have matched with more than 400 scholars. 

All QuestBridge Finalists, regardless of participating in the National College Match, can use their QuestBridge Application in the Early and Regular Decision programs at Columbia University.

National College Match Requirements

Questbridge application.

If you are participating in the National College Match, Columbia will review all materials associated with your QuestBridge Application.

You should submit your application to Columbia under Regular Decision if you wish to be considered for the National College Match. Please select "Regular Decision" under Entry Term when filling out your application. If you are matched with Columbia through QuestBridge, your application status will automatically switch and be considered in the Early Decision process. 

Please note that if you’re selected as a College Match with Columbia, the admission contract is binding and you will be expected to attend Columbia the following fall. (That means you must also withdraw all other admissions applications.)

Please do not submit a Common Application or Coalition Application.  

Columbia QuestBridge Questionnaire

After Columbia has received your QuestBridge Application, we’ll send you information about completing the Columbia QuestBridge Questionnaire. The Questionnaire will ask you about your academic interests, as well as some Columbia-specific questions .

Official Transcripts

Columbia requires an official high school transcript from all high schools attended. All transcripts submitted by a school official will be considered official transcripts. If the transcript submitted as part of your QuestBridge Application was not submitted by a school official, please have a school official submit a transcript. Transcripts submitted by a student are not considered official. 

Standardized Tests

Columbia is test-optional for applicants to Columbia College or Columbia Engineering. Please review our standardized testing policy for additional details.

Students who choose not to submit test scores will not be at a disadvantage in our process. Students who choose to submit testing  may self-report their scores, and s cores sent as part of the QuestBridge Application will be considered. Students do not need to submit scores separately or in addition to the QuestBridge Application, unless you wish to submit new or updated test scores.

For Finalists participating in the National College Match, we can accept testing no later than the October test dates for the SAT or ACT in order to be considered for the College Match at Columbia.

​Please note that our office will verify scores for all enrolling students, and any discrepancies between official and self-reported scores may jeopardize a student's place in the class. If scores are submitted by a school official, there is no need for an official score report at any time.

Financial Aid Information

QuestBridge applicants must submit the following to be considered for financial aid:

• FAFSA (US Citizens, Permanent Residents and other Eligible Noncitizens only; not required for students living in the US without legal citizenship or residency)
• CSS Profile
• Federal Income Tax Returns

Please review the full financial aid instructions on our website . Detailed information about financial aid for the National College Match is also available on the  QuestBridge website .

The financial aid deadline for students participating in the National College Match is November 1.

Options Outside of the Match

QuestBridge Finalists who choose not to participate in the National College Match, or are not matched during the National College Match, can still use their QuestBridge Applications in Columbia University's Early or Regular Decision processes.

Early Decision

Finalists who participated in and ranked Columbia University for the National College Match, submitted all required application materials, AND did not match at any partner schools may request to be considered as an Early Decision applicant to Columbia. Only Finalists with a completed application to Columbia will be eligible to make this request; eligible Finalists will receive additional information following match notification. 

Finalists who did not participate in the National College Match but would like to be evaluated for Early Decision should notify us of their intent to apply to Columbia's binding Early Decision plan by emailing us at [email protected] . 

Interested applicants should carefully review Columbia's policy on Early Decision , as there is a binding agreement to attend if admitted. 

Regular Decision 

All Finalists who ranked Columbia for the College Match but did not match to a binding college will automatically have their applications moved into the Regular Decision process. If you ranked Columbia during the Match, Columbia will reevaluate your QuestBridge Application during the Regular Decision process beginning in January; please do not submit a Common or Coalition Application if you have already submitted a QuestBridge Application through the National College Match. You are encouraged to send a one-page letter to let Columbia know of your continued interest in Columbia, as well as any notable accomplishments since your QuestBridge application was submitted. Columbia will review any supplementary materials submitted. Please upload this letter through your Columbia applicant status page. 

Finalists who did not participate in the College Match or did not list Columbia on their Match list, but are interested in applying Regular Decision, should follow the instructions listed on QuestBridge's website for Regular Decision.

If you do not wish to be considered as a Regular Decision applicant, please email the Admissions office at [email protected] to request that your application be withdrawn.

We have prepared a list of common questions from QuestBridge applicants. If your question is not answered in the Frequently Asked Questions , please email [email protected] .

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First-Year Applicants

First-year applicant checklist.

As a first-year applicant, you must submit the following credentials. International applicants must also submit additional  credentials .

• Common Application or QuestBridge Application

High School Transcript

Senior year grades.

• Counselor Recommendation and School Report Form

Teacher Evaluation

• Standardized Tests (Optional)
• College of Fine Arts Requirements

Additional Details

Common application and questbridge application.

BU accepts the Common Application and QuestBridge Application .

QuestBridge Applicants : Please visit our QuestBridge webpage for details about the application process.

Selecting an Academic Program:

• You must specify a BU school or college when applying.
• Please refer to our list of majors to see which semesters of entry are available for each program.
• If you do not have a specific school or subject area in mind, we suggest you apply to the College of Arts & Sciences and select “Undeclared” or the College of General Studies .

Essays : You must submit two essays in the space provided on the Common Application. This is an important part of your application because it gives you the chance to tell us your story as an applicant.

Admission to your selected program:

• While you will be given consideration for the school or college to which you apply, it’s possible that you will be offered admission to the College of General Studies or another BU program for which you qualify. Please check the box to indicate whether you would like to be considered for this option on your application.
• If you are applying to the College of Fine Arts, you will only be considered for the program to which you applied.
• If you are interested in being considered for the Kilachand Honors College , check “Yes” to this question on your application and then complete the required essay. Your application will first be considered for admission to the school or college to which you have applied. If you are admitted to that program, you will then be considered for admission into the Kilachand Honors College.

Application Fee: Our application fee is $80 and can be paid via the Common Application.

For most BU programs, the recommended high school/secondary school curriculum is as follows:

• 4 years of English
• 3-4 years of mathematics (precalculus/calculus recommended)*
• 3-4 years of laboratory science
• 3-4 years of history and/or social science
• 2-4 years of a world language

*Applicants to the College of Engineering are required to have a year of calculus. For students enrolled in IB courses, this requirement would be met with enrollment in HL or SL Math Analysis & Approaches or HL Math Applications & Interpretations.

* Applicants to the Questrom School of Business are required to have a year of calculus  or  a year of precalculus and a year of AP Statistics. For students enrolled in IB courses this requirement would be met with enrollment in HL or SL  Math  Analysis & Approaches or HL  Math  Applications & Interpretations.

• Early Decision Applicants: Early Decision applicants should have their counselor submit first marking period grades, which may be first quarter or first trimester grades, as soon as they are available.
• Regular Decision Applicants: If you are on a semester schedule, please have your counselor send your first marking period or first quarter grades if available. In addition, your counselor must submit first semester grades once they are available. If you are on a trimester schedule, please have your counselor submit your first trimester grades once they are available.

School Counselor Recommendation and School Report Form

Please ask your counselor to submit the School Report form and the School Counselor Recommendation form found on the Common Application.

Please ask a teacher to submit the Teacher Evaluation form found on the Common Application.

Standardized Tests

Boston University is test optional for first-year applicants applying through fall 2025 and spring 2026.

• This policy applies to all undergraduate schools and colleges at Boston University as well as all scholarship programs.
• International students will be required to submit the TOEFL, IELTS, or DuoLingo English Test as the primary means for evaluating English-language proficiency.

Prospective students and applicants must decide for themselves whether or not to include standardized test scores with their application for admission to Boston University. When making this decision, we ask students to consider the totality of their academic record, their contributions both in and out of the classroom and to their communities, and whether they feel confident that the sum of these experiences fully reflect their academic ability and potential.

Students have the ability to indicate whether they would like us to consider their standardized test scores when they apply. Once you have submitted your application, this answer cannot be changed.

If you would like your standardized test scores considered:

Boston University accepts self-reported standardized test scores on your application. You may also submit your official test scores via the testing agency, or through the self-report form on the MyBU Applicant Portal.

Please note: If you submit self-reported standardized test scores, an official score report from the testing agency will be required before enrolling at Boston University. If there are discrepancies between self-reported and official standardized test scores, your enrollment at Boston University may be rescinded.

When sending official scores, t he BU codes are:

BU superscores both the SAT and ACT.  To take advantage of superscoring, we recommend including all your test scores if you take more than one test or take a test multiple times. For both the SAT and ACT, BU uses the highest score of each section, regardless of test date, to best represent you as an applicant.

• If you’ve taken the SAT more than once, you can select which results you want to send to us using  Score Choice . We only consider the highest SAT scores submitted.
• For the ACT, we recalculate a new composite score using the highest score from each section, regardless of test date.

Portfolios, Auditions, and Interviews

If you are applying to the  College of Fine Arts , please see the different requirements for the program.

Please note that all materials and documents submitted as part of an application for admission become the property of Boston University and cannot be returned.

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More than just academics, a BU education prepares you to make the most of life. So discover why clicking "send" on your application is a smart choice.

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Match Requirements for:

Finalists who rank Massachusetts Institute of Technology

If you are a Finalist who ranked MIT, your National College Match application will be sent to MIT, and you will need to submit the following requirements to the school by November 1. If you have questions after reviewing the information below, please  view the FAQs for MIT Applicants or reach out to the school directly .

Regular Decision Requirements:

Step 1: Select MIT on the QuestBridge Regular Decision Form on your Application Management page between November 3 - December 10. Only check the box if you fully intend to submit a complete application to MIT (including all of the materials detailed in the table below).

Step 2: Activate your MIT Applicant Portal. QuestBridge will send Finalist applications to MIT on December 13. MIT will email you directions to set up your applicant portal, so that you can track the status of your materials you submit to MIT.

Step 3: Submit all additional required application and financial aid materials by the applicable deadlines directly to MIT as detailed in the table below.

Information for Non-Finalists

Contact Information 

MIT Contacts (regarding QuestBridge applications and general questions):

Office of Undergraduate Admissions Student Financial Services

More information on admissions requirements for MIT More information on financial aid at MIT

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