Denver
Prospective Students & Families
The Challenge Foundation empowers motivated and engaged students from underserved populations who aspire to attend college. We seek students with high aptitude, strong work ethic and attendance, whose families demonstrate significant financial need and a commitment to education. Our competitive admission process evaluates each applicant and their family holistically.
The application period runs from January of 4th grade through March of 5th grade. To be eligible, students must show a strong commitment to their education, a desire to attend college, and support from their family. Once selected, scholars receive full-tuition scholarships and individualized, wraparound support services from 6th grade through college including but not limited to:
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Academic Support: Tutoring, as needed, and mentoring
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College Readiness: Summer programs and college application guidance
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Emotional/Social Learning: Assigned mentor, referral and access to counseling services, and check-ins with an advisor
We partner closely with schools to ensure our Scholars receive the best possible education and support.
Due to high demand, the application process is competitive, and we are dedicated to a thoughtful review of each candidate.
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Student must be enrolled in 4th grade at time of application
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Student must be doing well in school, performing at or above grade level in all subject areas.
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Family must live within reasonable proximity from our partner schools
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Scholars must be motivated to attend college
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Families must have an annual income at or below our guidelines (changes annually, provided at time of application)
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Nomination: Students are nominated in 4th grade by parents, teachers, or community members
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Testing: Candidates are assessed in reading, math, and writing
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Application Submission: Families submit written applications and financial documents
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STARS: 9 half days of an academic summer program for applicants
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Parent/Student Interviews: Parent and student interviews are conducted separately
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Home Visits: We conduct home visits with all semi-finalists to assess fit for the program
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Independent School Applications: Candidates complete the same application process as other applicants to independent schools. Applications to independent schools are supported by Challenge Foundation staff and include essays, school visits, and financial aid applications
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Final Review: Challenge Administrators make the final decision on admission to the program.
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Who Applies for the Scholarship? The scholarship is for hardworking, intelligent students whose families cannot afford such programs on their own. We seek students who are motivated to learn and excel in their studies.
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How are parents involved? Parental support is crucial. We look for families who are enthusiastic about the opportunity and prioritize education.
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Is transportation provided? We work with 6 partner schools, transportation options vary by school. .
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Are families asked to pay any money? The Foundation along with the partner school covers most of the tuition costs. Families contribute a small portion based on their income. There may be additional costs for supplies or activities similar to those in public schools.
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Are students required to wear uniforms? Our partner schools do not require uniforms, but many have dress codes. Challenge assists middle school scholars with purchasing school appropriate clothing as needed. .
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If a student is not accepted, can they reapply in the future? Students may only apply during 4th grade due to the nature of our program.
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How is my information protected? Challenge maintains confidentiality of information shared by scholars and families.
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Who should I contact if I have more questions? The Challenge Foundation Staff, email denver@thechallengefoundation.org
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