Why Join Minds Matter DC?
More than a college access program, Minds Matter DC provides the academic support, mentorship, and opportunities to help students thrive in high school and beyond.
Academic Excellence
Build the skills you need for college through weekly SAT preparation, writing workshops, math instruction, and interactive learning experiences.
A Community That Supports You
Become part of a close-knit community of students, mentors, and volunteers who will encourage, challenge, and celebrate you throughout high school.
Personalized Mentorship
Work one-on-one with dedicated mentors who will help you navigate high school, prepare for college, and achieve your goals.
Your Journey
Starts Here
The Minds Matter DC application opens each spring for rising 10th grade students interested in joining our three-year college access program.
Our application process is designed to help us get to know you beyond your grades.
If you're motivated to grow, committed to your future, and ready to challenge yourself, we'd love to hear from you.
STEP 1
Complete the Student Application
Tell us about yourself, your interests, goals, and why you'd like to join Minds Matter DC.
STEP 2
Parent/Guardian Commitment
A parent or guardian must complete the Parent Commitment Form to confirm their support for your participation.
STEP 3
School Counselor Nomination
Ask your school counselor or college counselor to complete the Counselor Nomination Form.
STEP 4
Teacher Recommendation
Choose a current teacher who knows you well and ask them to submit a recommendation on your behalf.
Are You Eligible?
You may be a great fit if you...
Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
Plan to attend a four-year college or university
Demonstrate academic potential, motivation, maturity, and responsibility
Meet the household income eligibility guidelines
Income Eligibility
Minds Matter DC serves connected, driven, and determined students from low-income families. Income eligibility is based on annual household income and household size using guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Please review the chart below to determine whether your household may be eligible to apply.
Minds Matter is a meritocratic organization that rewards hard work, dedication and achievement, and does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or physical ability.
Before you apply, please make sure you have your most recent report card or grades electronically. If you are unable to upload this document, please contact admissions@mindsmatterdc.org.
*Income eligibility guidelines are based on 80% of the median income measured by the 2025 Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DCVA-MD HUD Metro Fair Market Rent Area which determine eligibility for assisted housing programs including the Public Housing, Section 8 project-based, Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, Section 202 housing for the elderly, and Section 811 housing for persons with disabilities programs.
100% College Acceptance
We’re consistently impressed by and proud of our Minds Matter students. Each of our students are accepted into four-year universities and colleges, and many are accepted into some of the most competitive schools in the country.