heythere12

I recently found out about the Questbridge program and got really into what it was promoting (helping low income students). I, being one of those low income students, was thinking about applying. I looked at the stas of the past winners, however, and noticed that more than 70% of winners are first generations. My family's income is definitely under $60,000, not even close actually, but I am not a first generation. In fact, both of my parents graduated college. Even worse, I am not a URM.

My stats will be on par with an average Questbridge applicant, if slightly better, in terms of the SAT score and ECs. How important is the first generation status for Questbridge? Is low income and few assets more emphasized? Should I even apply? Please help me out!

crazymomster

My S was a QB finalist.. he is white and not first generation. Please don't let stats hold you back... there are all sorts who qualify!

heythere12

Thank you for such a prompt reply! If you don't mind, how difficult is the QB application to fill out? How much time did your S have to dedicate to it?

crazymomster

The answer to that varies so much from person to person. You should spend as much time as it takes to represent you the best way you know how. Take the time to fix typos, grammatical errors, spelling, etc. Probably allow at least 5 hours, but you should revisit the application at least twice, if not three times to really polish it.

Youdon'tsay

Heythere, are you a senior? If so, it's too late.

LoremIpsum

If you are first generation or a URM, you are more likely to be placed during the match round, because such applicants with strong stats are in short supply. But the bulk of QB's applicants are placed during regular decision and not being URM or even having parents with advanced degrees won't stop you from getting multiple acceptances.

QB applications may be more work, but they also give you the opportunity to better present the challenges that you faced. The application also forces you to get started earlier, which can be a good thing.

heythere12

I am currently looking to apply to the college prep scholarship

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pleiotropy

Hey there (haha pun intended) I face the exact dilemma. I'm a recent immigrant so while my parents have PhD's, their income is <20000$. Plus I'm Asian D:
But I will definitely apply to the prep scholarship. I know someone who is like us and does not have omgsuperamazinggenius stats but gets in, so don't lose hope.