QuestBridge vs Dell Scholars Program
Comparing two highly competitive interdisciplinary opportunities. Both are scholarships for high school students.
| QuestBridge | Dell Scholars Program | |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige Tier | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive |
| Type | Scholarship | Scholarship |
| Organization | QuestBridge | Michael & Susan Dell Foundation |
| Acceptance Rate | Highly selective; exact acceptance rate not publicly disclosed but Finalists are described as 'competitive candidates'; estimated 10-20% of applicants become Finalists based on indirect sources | Approximately 10-15% estimated (500 scholars selected annually from a likely 3,000-5,000+ applicants, though exact applicant numbers not publicly released) |
| Applicants | Not officially disclosed; significant national applicant pool estimated in tens of thousands | Not officially published, but highly competitive given 500 winners and national scope; likely 3,000-5,000+ applications annually |
| Deadline | Rolling | Rolling |
| Award | — | $20,000 |
| Cost to Apply | Free | Free |
| US Only | Yes | Yes |
| Grades | High school seniors only (also offers College Prep Scholars Program for juniors) | High school seniors only |
| College Impact | QuestBridge is highly respected by admissions officers at partner institutions and is viewed very favorably in college admissions. Being a QuestBridge Scholar demonstrates to any college (matched or n... | The Dell Scholars Program is highly regarded in college admissions and demonstrates significant commitment to college completion. Colleges and universities view Dell Scholars selection as meaningful v... |