Open the Door to a Top College – with QuestBridge

If you're a hardworking student who’s earned strong grades but worried about the cost of college, QuestBridge could be your pathway to a top-tier education — with little to no debt.

Are you a match?

I Might Be a Match

  • Conway student?
  • Strong grades (not perfect — just solid)?
  • Household income under ~$65,000?
  • Maybe first in your family to go to college?

To help us determine your eligibility and keep you informed, please provide the following information:

What is QuestBridge?

Important Note

Conway UP is not affiliated with QuestBridge. We are a local support program created by Conway students and educators to help identify students who may be a strong fit for QuestBridge and similar opportunities — and to walk alongside them through the process.

Mission

QuestBridge is a national nonprofit organization that connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with full scholarship opportunities at some of the most selective colleges in the country.

Its mission is to increase access to top-tier education for students who may not realize how much opportunity is available to them — especially at schools they thought were out of reach.

Through partnerships with over 50 top colleges and universities, QuestBridge helps students apply for free, receive generous financial aid, and become part of diverse, supportive academic communities.

Logistics

QuestBridge offers two major programs for high school students:

  1. College Prep Scholars Program (for Juniors)

    • Opens in February, due in March or April
    • Helps students prepare for competitive college admissions
    • Offers feedback on college essays, invites to summer programs, and fly-in opportunities to visit colleges early
  2. National College Match (for Seniors)

    • Opens in July, due in late September
    • Apply to up to 15 partner colleges through one free application
    • Finalists rank schools for a chance at a full four-year scholarship
    • Students who don’t match still often receive strong offers through Regular Decision

Both applications are free and fully online. They require essays, transcripts, recommendations, and financial info — and Conway UP can help you every step of the way.

55 Top College Partners

QuestBridge teams up with 55 top colleges — like Stanford, Princeton, and Emory — to find high-achieving students from low-income families.

These colleges want students who have worked hard but might not think they can afford a place like that. Through the National College Match, you could get a full four-year scholarship that covers tuition, housing, and more — with no loans.

Nominate a Student

Know someone who might be a good fit — even if they don’t know it yet?

Key Dates & Deadlines

We’ve made a one-page printable timeline of important QuestBridge and scholarship deadlines for the Class of 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

🎯 About the Program

What is Conway UP?

Conway UP is a scholarship identification program designed to help Conway High School students discover opportunities like QuestBridge and other programs that can lead to full scholarships at top colleges.

Is Conway UP part of QuestBridge?

No. Conway UP is a local initiative inspired by QuestBridge, but it is not officially affiliated. We help connect students with that and other life-changing programs.

Who is this for?

Rising juniors and seniors at Conway High School who might be eligible for competitive scholarship programs based on academic performance and financial need.

Do I have to be a straight-A student to qualify?

No. Most programs look for students who work hard, challenge themselves, and show potential — not perfection.

💰 Scholarships & Costs

What kinds of scholarships are we talking about?

Many students matched through programs like QuestBridge receive full four-year scholarships to schools like Princeton, Yale, or Rice. Others may qualify for fly-in programs, summer experiences, or generous aid packages at public universities.

How much money could I actually get?

If matched through QuestBridge, the scholarship typically covers tuition, housing, meals, books, and travel. At minimum, you may qualify for significant financial aid.

Do I have to pay to apply?

No. Programs like QuestBridge are free to apply to. In fact, they often waive application fees to multiple colleges at once.

📝 Eligibility & Application Process

How do I know if I’m eligible?

You might be eligible if:

  • Your family earns under ~$65,000/year (for a family of four)
  • You’re in the top 10–15% of your class
  • You’ve taken challenging classes (honors, AP, concurrent)
  • You’ve faced financial or personal challenges and kept going

Can I still qualify if I’m not sure I meet those requirements?

Yes. That’s what this program is for — to help you figure that out. If you’re unsure, fill out the “I Might Be a Match”survey and we’ll help assess your fit.

What if I’m not in the top of my class?

Even if you’re not #1, schools care about the rigor of your classes, your motivation, your story, and your growth — not just your GPA.

Do I have to apply right now?

If you’re a junior: You can apply to the College Prep Scholars Program, which usually opens in February and is due in March or April. It’s a great way to get a head start and access additional support.

If you’re a senior: You can apply to the National College Match, which opens in July and is due in late September. Even if it’s already open, it’s not too late — and we can help you catch up.

🤝 Nominations & Support

What happens if I nominate someone?

We’ll reach out to them with info, encouragement, and help getting started — even if they’ve never heard of these programs.

Can I nominate myself?

Instead of nominating yourself, fill out the “I Might Be a Match” section to inform us of your own interest!

What kind of support will I get?

You will have access to a road map of deadlines and tasks for applying, an A.I. assistant specified to applying to QuestBridge, and a connection to your counselor so they can aid you in your applications.

🎓 About QuestBridge

What is QuestBridge?

QuestBridge is a nonprofit that helps high-achieving, low-income students apply to top colleges — with the potential for full scholarships.

What schools are part of QuestBridge?

Over 50 colleges, including Stanford, Princeton, MIT, Rice, Swarthmore, and the University of Chicago.

When do I apply for QuestBridge?

If you’re a junior: You can apply to the College Prep Scholars Program, which usually opens in February and is due in March or April. It’s a great way to get a head start and access additional support.

If you’re a senior: You can apply to the National College Match, which opens in July and is due in late September. Even if it’s already open, it’s not too late — and we can help you catch up.

If I don’t match, can I still go to a good school?

Absolutely. Many students who don’t match still attend top schools through Regular Decision or other aid programs.

📅 Timeline & Deadlines (Class of 2026 Example)

July 2025: QuestBridge Match application opens

September 2025: QuestBridge Match application due

October 2025: Finalist decisions

November 2025: College match ranking materials due

December 2025: Match Day

January 2026: Regular Decision deadlines (if not matched)

Contact Information

For questions or more information, please contact:

ConwayUP

Email: contact@conwayup.org

Founder: Caroline Chrysler