<p>I am really confused about this program. Do I apply early decision under the Questbridge form and hope to get in? What if I don't get in, does the fact that I am part of Questbridge still help me with my regular decision apps?</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>halfcup, it sounds like you’re getting it figured out. As explained here on the website ([QuestBridge</a> National College Match Program](<a href=“http://www.questbridge.org/students/program.html]QuestBridge”>http://www.questbridge.org/students/program.html)) QB gives two shots at admission at the partner colleges. </p>
<p>If you opt to be part of the first round, the College Match process, then you can’t apply ED or EA somewhere else. This is true even if you only rank non-binding schools (MIT, Notre Dame, Princeton, Stanford and Yale). If you are matched to a binding school (any of the other partner schools) during the College Match round, then you must attend that school. If you are matched to one of the non-binding schools, then you can apply regular decision to other schools.</p>
<p>With ordinary ED or EA programs you can be outright rejected by the schools to which you are applying. With the QB program, if you are not “matched” during the College Match round, you are always free to apply to any of the partner schools during the regular decision process.</p>
<p>I do think it is an advantage to be a QB applicant during the regular decision process. Colleges want high-achieving, low-income students as part of their student body. That’s why the partner schools are part of the program. By being part of the program, you’re letting them know you’re in this demographic. You’re also allowing them to read your application within this context. I can think of two students off the top of my head whom I regard as having the best application that money can buy–they’ve got folks with big bucks who have used them to create opportunities for their kids. With QB, schools know your family doesn’t have those kind of resources and they can read your accomplishments in context. QB partner schools recognize the value of things like taking care of younger siblings, and working part-time. (You don’t have to have done those kinds of things though.) </p>
<p>Speaking of resources, applying to colleges gets expensive! The fee waivers offered by QB partner schools are a big help.</p>
<p>Keep reading the website. There’s a ton of info there which should answer the bulk of your questions. It’s a great program.</p>