Policy on Outside Scholarships
Students are encouraged to pursue outside scholarships or funding to help pay for their books, travel, personal, and health insurance expenses. Outside scholarships that exceed these standard budgetary items will first reduce the work-study/student employment component and the student summer work contribution before the Claremont McKenna College grant is reduced dollar for dollar. In most cases and with the scholarship agency's permission, outside funding may also be used to purchase a one-time personal computer/laptop to minimize the CMC grant reduction. Federal and state grants are not considered outside funds.
Policy on Books and Travel Allowance
Students are expected to cover their own books and travel expenses as part of their contribution from summer work and/or work-study/study employment during the academic year. The book allowance is based on the amount students typically spend for books and supplies. Travel allowances are based off the permanent home address of the student. Grant aid is not provided for these costs.
Policy on Health Insurance
Claremont McKenna College requires all students to have adequate health insurance, either through a parent or another plan. If a QuestBridge Scholar is not covered by an existing plan while in Los Angeles (or abroad), the student may request that a portion of the $3,125 CMC Student Health Insurance Plan is funded by the Kravis Opportunity Fund.
Policy on Student Summer Work Contribution
Students cover a portion of their own personal expenses (i.e., books, travel expenses, etc.), from summer work earnings and/or academic year earnings through their work-study award. The expected student summer work contribution increases by $100 each year and may be replaced with loans, if requested. Student summer work contribution amounts are as follows by class:
First year: $2,200
Second year: $2,300
Third year: $2,400
Fourth year: $2,500
Other Details
QuestBridge Scholars are required to submit a FAFSA as soon as possible to determine their federal aid eligibility. California residents will be required to apply for a Cal Grant by having their high school counselors submit a GPA Verification Form on their behalf to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) by March 2, 2025. AB-540-Eligible California Residents must complete the California Dream Act Application by March 2, 2025.
Requirements Associated with Maintaining this Award
Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward graduation to remain eligible for financial aid. The Match Scholarship is only guaranteed for eight semesters. In very limited cases, an additional semester of institutional aid may be available through an appeal process. Students would need to apply for regular need-based financial aid where loans will be a part of the financial aid package. All QuestBridge Scholars will need to submit the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application each year to reapply for the scholarship.
Claremont McKenna College’s Financial Aid Overview
CMC is fully committed to meet 100% of demonstrated need of all admitted students, regardless of their financial background. CMC determines financial aid eligibility by evaluating each family’s ability to pay for education and will consider factors such as family income, family size, number of siblings in college, and other special circumstances.
CMC is dedicated to fostering a campus with a diverse student body including those with financial disadvantages and expects that many QuestBridge applicants will qualify for exceptional financial aid through the student's four years at CMC. In order to provide singular, transformative opportunities to each and every student, the College offers a range of benefits and support for those whose families have fewer resources. Through the Kravis Opportunity Fund, students receiving financial aid are guaranteed funding of up to $5,000 for an approved first-year summer internship or experience. Financial support is also available for eligible students to participate in College-sponsored networking trips, research travel, academic conferences attendance, participation in job shadowing programs, and other endeavors during the academic year.
Learn more about the College's commitment to financial aid on their website.
