Minds Matter SoCal Parent and Caregivers FAQ
Everything you need to know to support your student’s application
Parent & CareGiver FAQ
What is Minds Matter?
Minds Matter Southern California is a college success program that has served motivated students from low‑income families across Los Angeles for more than 15 years. Many of our students are the first in their families to attend college, and we walk with them through a seven‑year journey that begins in high school and continues through college graduation. Led by staff and powered by dedicated volunteers, we help students build the skills, confidence, and support network they need to reach and thrive in college and beyond. Our work is grounded in community and shaped by the belief that every student deserves a clear path to opportunity.
Who are Minds Matter students?
Minds Matter students are motivated, high‑achieving high schoolers who are determined to attend college and ready to grow. They bring curiosity, persistence, and a strong commitment to their own success. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply, and those who want a clear path to college often find a strong fit with our program.
What does “low‑income” mean for Minds Matter?
For Minds Matter, “low‑income” simply refers to the income guidelines we use for eligibility. It does not define your family — it’s just one part of our criteria. Many students who qualify for free or reduced‑price lunch meet these guidelines. Click here to see our income eligibility chart to see the exact requirements.
Does immigration status affect my student’s eligibility?
Your student’s eligibility to Minds Matter is not affected by your family’s immigration status. We welcome all applicants who meet our academic and income eligibility guidelines.
What does the Minds Matter program include?
Beginning in their sophomore year, students join a multi‑year journey that helps them build the academic skills, confidence, and support network needed for college success. The program includes:
✔ Weekly Saturday sessions
✔ Mentorship from trained volunteers
✔ Math and writing support
✔ SAT test preparation
✔ Social‑emotional learning and leadership development
✔ Access to summer academic programs at top universities
✔ Guidance through the college and financial aid process
✔ Continued support through college and into early career
Our goal is to partner with students as they grow academically, personally, and professionally.
What is the weekly commitment?
Students attend sessions every Saturday from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, from September through May, and we expect them to attend each week to fully benefit from the program. They also participate in two summer college programs—one after sophomore year and one after junior year. Students complete homework and occasional off‑site activities throughout the year
What is a mentor?
Mentors are trained volunteers who work with students every Saturday in small groups called “quads.” Each quad includes two students and two mentors who stay together throughout the program. Mentors help students build confidence, strengthen academic and leadership skills, and navigate the path to college. All mentors must undergo a background check.
What are the summer programs?
Students attend two academic summer programs at leading colleges and universities after their sophomore and junior years. These programs give students the opportunity to travel to campuses across the country, live in dorms, experience college life firsthand, explore new subjects, and build independence. Programs typically last 2–6 weeks.
The application process mirrors the college admissions process, helping students build confidence and prepare for what’s ahead.
Is there a cost to participate?
Our program is free. Minds Matter covers everything your student needs — books, materials, summer programs, travel to and from summer programs, application fees, and other required expenses.
For summer programs, families complete a short set of forms that colleges use to understand their financial situation. These forms help determine whether the college can contribute any support. Whatever the college does not cover, Minds Matter pays for in full. No family is ever asked to pay out of pocket.
Where are Saturday sessions held?
We meet at a high school in the Exposition Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, near USC. Families arrange transportation. Our location is easily accessible by public transportation. We’re a short walk from the Metro E Line Expo/Vermont stop, and several bus routes stop nearby. We will provide specific location details once your student is accepted into the program.
Do parents/caregivers need to attend any sessions?
Yes. Families attend two required Saturday events each year:
✔ Fall orientation
✔ Spring overview of the summer programs
We also host optional family events throughout the year, including our annual picnic and holiday celebration, as well as additional opportunities for parents and caregivers to meet and learn from one another.
If English isn’t your primary language, please let us know. Minds Matter is a diverse community, and we can often connect families with someone who speaks their language. Let us know in advance, so we have time to arrange translation support.
Do we need to provide income information each year?
Minds Matter serves students from low‑income families. To determine eligibility, we ask for basic information about your household income when they apply and each year. This can include an IRS Form 1040 or proof of government assistance. We use this information only to confirm eligibility and to help colleges and summer programs understand your family’s financial situation when they review applications.
If your family doesn’t have tax documents available, please use the form below to contact us or email [email protected], and we’ll walk you through alternate ways to confirm eligibility.
What is the Parent Council?
Our Parent Council is a welcoming community of support for families and caregivers. It’s made up of staff, volunteers, and current Minds Matter parents who understand the journey your student is on — and the questions that often come with it.
We know many of our students are the first in their families to navigate the path to college, and that process can feel new, confusing, or even overwhelming at times. You don’t have to figure it out alone. The Parent Council is here to listen, share experiences, answer questions, and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.
We look after each other, we care for each other, and we believe in walking this path together. If you have any concerns or would like to connect, our Parent Council leaders are here for you.
How does my student apply?
Students apply during the spring semester of their freshman year in high school for enrollment the following fall. They can apply to Minds Matter using the online application on our website.
Can siblings apply?
Yes, siblings are welcome to apply when they are freshmen in high school. Each student completes the same application process.
Need more information?
Submit questions about the application process here.