<p>Hi all!</p>
<p>I'm debating whether or not to apply for the Questbridge college match and rank some schools. One of the main factors is that I don't really think I will be matched. Though my SAT's (>2200) and GPA (4.0 unweighted) at my smaller rural school will get me some thought and the fact that my family of 3 has income < 30,000, I just don't have that outstanding story of strenuating circumstances. However, I was wonder what the difference between Questbridge Regular Descision and applying the regular way, like through the Common App? Are the acceptance standards the same? What about the acceptance rate? What about the finacial aid packages? Is there really an advantage?</p>
<p>Thanks much!
Christopher</p>
<p>Short answer: Yes!
The QB partner schools want more applications from qualified, low-income students - that’s why they’re partners. You don’t need a “sob story,” as many people seem to think - having low family income is the “hook.”
You’re stats seem competitive, so I would encourage you to apply to QB. Your other questions depend on which schools you’re interested in, so do your research.</p>
<p>Your stats are on the higher end for QB applicants, and if you’ve managed to be successful and not feel disadvantaged with a family income of 30K, more power to you. You can write your essays about whatever is meaningful to you - many Questies don’t dwell on adversity although plenty do have hardship stories to tell. You can compare the QB match packages here: <a href=“QuestBridge | Scholarship Details”>http://www.questbridge.org/for-students/ncm-scholarship-details</a>. Just click on the school name at the bottom of the page and it will show you the scholarship. You can compare this to the FA estimate you get from NPC on college’s website for schools you’re interested in. There’s a facebook group for the 2014/2015 Questbridge applicants and you can get lots of help and companionship there :)</p>