<p>I don't know why, but I am so afraid I'm going to apply for Questbridge for Emory/ U of Penn and be denied. My test scores are pretty decent, but I am working harder to bring them up (1st SAT: 1820, retaking in Oct; taking 1st ACT in Sept). I've had many leadership roles & EC's annd have a 4.0. Do any past applicants have any tips or suggestions for Questbridge? Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>If you went to one of the college conferences (as a College Prep Scholar), you should remember that the number of people matched is extremely low compared to the total number of NCM applicants. If I recall, only ~400 students out of >12,000 applicants last year got matched in the NCM; however, you’ll have a much higher chance of admittance as a finalist through RD. I believe a total of ~2000 students out of the 12,000 QB applicants get accepted to at least one of the partner colleges. Don’t worry too much; just bring up those SAT scores, keep trying hard in and outside of school, and prepare an amazing essay for both the QB and Common Apps. </p>
<p>You might not match and be deferred to the RD round. Then you might or might not get accepted. So now that you have your reaches, come up with some other options in case you get shut out.</p>
<p>Go into the process of QB assuming you are not going to be matched. You need to look at the positive things it brings to the table…free apps, being looked at in a special pile as a Questbridge Scholar, able to apply to as many as 8 schools ED, etc. You do need to bring up your test scores, so make sure you study for them. Your public library should have copies of the the big red and big blue book if you don’t have or can’t afford them. Good luck.</p>