Your Minds Matter SoCal Application FAQ
Everything you need to know before you apply
Application FAQs
Who are Minds Matter students?
Minds Matter students are motivated, high‑achieving high school students determined to attend college. They bring curiosity, persistence, and a strong desire to grow — and they’re ready to commit to a rigorous seven‑year journey that builds their skills, confidence, and opportunities. If you have a minimum 3.0 GPA and want a clear path to college success, you may be a great fit for the program.
What does “low‑income” mean for Minds Matter?
For Minds Matter, “low‑income” simply means your family meets the income guidelines used by many college‑access programs. It does not define you or your potential — it’s just part of our eligibility criteria. If you qualify for free or reduced‑price lunch, there’s a good chance you meet our income guidelines. Click here to see our income eligibility chart to see the exact requirements.
Does my immigration status affect my eligibility?
No. Your family’s immigration or citizenship status does not affect your application. We welcome all students who meet our academic and income eligibility requirements.
What is the application process like?
The first step is submitting your application, which helps us learn about your interests, goals, and why you want to join Minds Matter. While using our online application portal, you will request an academic recommendation from a teacher or counselor at your school, and a form that your parent or caregiver will need to complete.
If you meet our requirements and show the qualities of a strong Minds Matter student, you’ll be invited to an interview. During the interview, you’ll meet members of the Minds Matter community who want to understand your strengths, your motivation, and how you approach challenges. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the program. The interview is a two‑way conversation — an opportunity for us to learn about you, and for you to learn whether Minds Matter is the right fit for your goals.
Review our application checklist so you know exactly what you’ll need when you apply.
Who should I ask to write my academic recommendation?
Ask a counselor, academic teacher, or school administrator who knows your work and can speak to your curiosity, effort, and potential. This person will be required to upload your transcript. You may also include an optional recommendation from another adult who knows you well — such as a coach, pastor, YMCA coordinator, or community leader — as long as they are not related to you.
What information does my parent or caregiver need to provide?
They’ll share information about your household income, such as an IRS Form 1040 or proof of government assistance. If they have questions, they can visit our Parent Page for more details.
How competitive is Minds Matter?
Minds Matter looks for students who are motivated, academically strong, and ready to commit to a rigorous seven‑year journey. To apply, you must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, show curiosity and maturity, and be eager to grow. If you’re driven and willing to put in the work, we encourage you to apply to our program.
Sessions FAQs
When are Minds Matter sessions?
Sessions take place on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, September through May. We follow the same holiday schedule as most schools. We expect students to attend every session to fully benefit from the program.
Where are sessions held?
We meet at a high school in the Exposition Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, near USC. 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.
What is the time commitment?
Students attend Saturday sessions and complete weekly assignments. Most students spend 4–5 hours per week on Minds Matter homework, including writing, test prep, and other projects.
What academic support does Minds Matter provide?
You’ll receive:
✔ individualized math tutoring
✔ SAT preparation
✔ one‑on‑one writing coaching
✔ support with homework when needed
✔ College application support
Our goal is to help you build confidence and master the skills that matter most for college.
What other kinds of support does Minds Matter offer?
We help you grow beyond academics. Through Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), you’ll practice communication, build mental‑health awareness, and strengthen your leadership skills in a supportive community.
What does a typical Saturday look like?
9:00–10:00 — SEL connection circle
10:00–12:00 — Tutoring and academic instruction
12:00–12:30 — Lunch (provided by Minds Matter)
12:30–2:30 — Mentoring, college knowledge, and life‑skills development
Mentoring FAQs
What is a mentor?
A mentor is an adult who supports you, encourages you, and helps you navigate your path to college. They’re not a teacher or a tutor — they’re someone in your corner who listens, asks good questions, and helps you think through challenges and opportunities.
In Minds Matter, mentors get to know you over time. They celebrate your wins, help you stay organized, and guide you through big steps like choosing classes, preparing for summer programs, and planning for college. You’ll meet with your mentors every Saturday and check in with them during the week, building a relationship that grows stronger each year.
What is a quad?
A quad is a small team made up of two students and two mentors who work together throughout your three years in Minds Matter. Your quad becomes your support system — a group of people who get to know you well, cheer you on, and help you stay focused on your goals.
In your quad, you’ll talk through challenges, celebrate your progress, and plan for big steps like summer programs and college applications. Because the group stays together year after year, you build trust, confidence, and a sense of belonging that grows stronger over time.
How do I get matched with mentors?
We don’t match students randomly. During the first few weeks of sophomore year, you’ll meet mentors and classmates. We match quads based on interests, personality, and what will help you grow.
How long will I have my mentors?
Most quads stay together for three years — sophomore through senior year.
How often will I see my mentors?
Mentors attend Saturday afternoon sessions and check in with you weekly outside of sessions.
Who are the mentors?
All mentors are college graduates who have completed an interview process and a background check. Many are Minds Matter alumni who understand your journey firsthand.
SUMMER PROGRAMS FAQs
What are summer programs?
During your summer break, you’ll attend two academically challenging college programs — one before junior year and one before senior year. These programs take place at leading colleges and universities across the country.
You’ll travel to a college campus, live in the dorms, and experience firsthand what college life is really like. You’ll take college‑level classes, explore new subjects, and learn from professors who treat you like a real college student. Students often say this is where they grow the most — gaining independence, confidence, and a clearer sense of the future they want.
You’ll also meet students from across the country and around the world, building friendships and networks that last long after the summer ends. Minds Matter students have attended programs at Barnard, Berkeley, Brown, Columbia, Emory, Harvard, RISD, and UPenn. We have many more options depending upon your academic goals and interests.
How much do summer programs cost?
Minds Matter covers all expenses, including:
✔ tuition
✔ airfare
✔ textbooks
✔ spending money
More Information FAQs
I want to be a Minds Matter student. Where can I apply?
You can apply online on our website —just click this link. Everything you need is right there.
What if my parent or caregiver has questions?
They can visit our parents’ FAQ page or contact us directly. We’re here to support your whole family.
Can Minds Matter visit my school or organization?
Yes. Use the form below to request a presentation.
Need more information?
Submit questions about the application process here.