Hi all,
My friend, currently a junior at a well-known NYC public high school, is an I-visa (media visa) derivative from Japan. She is quite high-achieving and wishes to go into science (biology). She came to the States when she was still a baby, so while her younger sister has US citizen status, she does not.
I’ve told her about QuestBridge, which she does plan to apply to, but her family income is around 70k so I’m not sure how much of a chance she would have. She wishes to go to a private university in the States, around the caliber of the QuestBridge partner colleges.
With this situation in mind, what do you all suggest she do?
She needs to find out how much her parents can pay each year, and then identify some places that will be affordable without any aid. She is an international applicant for aid purposes, and should only apply to places that she knows can be made affordable. Her guidance counselor should know whether or not she is considered in-state for tuition and fees in NYS based on the number of years of residence there.
Sure, don’t we all wish to go to those colleges. She can apply to some selective colleges, checking each first to see that they do give need aid for students classified as internationals. Questbridge is for people who have had disadvantage and hardship situations growing up. Usually it is economic. I suggest she have some good backups in case those schools don’t work out, basically. Look at the pinned threads at the top, perhaps she will qualify for some automatic free tuition/full rides, it may not be her first choice but a lot of students take advantage of those offers.
Isn’t Questbridge for US citizens only? Do check the requirements for the program. IF she’s eligible, yes, it’s a great resource.
https://questbridge.zendesk.com/entries/23033577-Can-I-apply-to-QuestBridge-if-I-am-not-a-U-S-Citizen-or-Permanent-Resident-
Read this. International students van apply through Questbridge, but not all partner schools consider international students. And some do it on a case by case basis.