Ranking colleges for the Match

The ability to rank colleges is one way the National College Match is unique from other college and scholarship applications. By ranking colleges, you could be “matched” — admitted early with a guaranteed full four-year Match Scholarship — to the college that appears highest on your list that is also able to match with you. You can rank up to 15 colleges in order of preference, while typical Early Decision admission processes allow you to apply to just one college.

All of our college partners offer strong academic environments and the resources and support for you to thrive on campus and beyond. We encourage you to research all of our college partners as you decide which schools to rank. Typically, students who rank more colleges have a higher chance of matching. However, remember that the Match is binding, so you should only rank schools you are certain you would be excited to attend if matched.

Please keep in mind:

• You can rank up to 15 colleges in order of preference.
• You can be matched to only ONE school.
• Colleges do not know where you have ranked them.
• If you are matched, you will receive early admission and a full four-year scholarship with no loans or parental contribution.
• If you are matched, the admission decision is binding. You are committed to attending the school you match to the following fall.*
• If you do not rank colleges you will not be considered for the Match Scholarship and are only eligible to apply through QuestBridge Regular Decision.

*With the exception of MIT.

Match Requirements

If you are selected as a Finalist, you have started an application with the colleges you have ranked, and you must submit additional materials (called Match Requirements) to each of the colleges on your ranking list by November 1. Click the links below to find each college's Match Requirements on their Application Requirements page.

If you have a question about submitting materials that is not answered on the school's Application Requirements page, please reach out to the school's admissions or financial aid office directly through the contact information on their Application Requirements page.

FAQs

• Where can I find my Match Agreement Form? →
• Do I need to submit a Match Agreement Form if I am not ranking schools? →
• Can I rank fewer than 15 schools for the Match? →
• What is the QuestBridge early application policy? →