How to Apply – Seattle
Rainier Scholars – Seattle is a great fit for students who demonstrate curiosity, enjoy challenges and love to learn new things!
We are looking for students who have a strong desire to go to college. Our selection process seeks to identify families who stand to benefit the most from the services and resources we provide. Our program seeks students with the greatest number of barriers to college graduation, whether that be socioeconomic, racial, family education level, first generation/immigrant, etc. We focus our recruitment efforts in Title 1 schools in the greater Puget Sound region.
Eligibility Criteria
- Currently enrolled in 4th grade in the Seattle, Renton, Highline or surrounding districts.
- Loves to learn.
- Are looking to be part of a community of curious, motivated, and supportive peers.
In addition, our program looks for families with the greatest need (those with limited income, minimal experience navigating higher education pathways, and/or other significant barriers to college graduation) to apply.
Families must demonstrate a commitment to the long-term work of developing the skills and habits required to obtain a college degree in service of maximizing their choices and opportunities.
Steps to Apply
Step 1
Complete an Inquiry Form.
Step 2
(November – January)
Attend a family information meeting to learn more about the program and determine if Rainier Scholars is a fit for your student.
Step 3
(November – February)
Submit an application and student takes an in-person academic achievement test.
Step 4
(February – March)
Applicants invited to Round 2 submit additional application materials and participate in in-person assessments including student interviews.
Step 5
(May)
Applicants are notified if their child is accepted to Rainier Scholars.
Summer
Accepted students begin a 14-month academic program Monday through Friday during the summer, and Wednesdays and Saturdays during the school year.
Application Timeline
How to Nominate a Student
Do you know a promising 4th grade student? We invite teachers and other community members in the Seattle area to nominate promising students for Rainier Scholars. Learn more about our eligibility criteria by reviewing our School Partner Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost to families to participate?
There is no fee to participate in Rainier Scholars.
Does Rainier Scholars offer private school or college scholarships?
No, we do not offer scholarships. However, our scholars are highly eligible for scholarships offered by other organizations, and we work with families to secure financial aid. To date, scholars have received more than $50 million cumulatively in merit and need-based financial aid for private schools and colleges.
Do scholars give up their activities to be part of Rainier Scholars?
There is an impact to your child’s current activity schedule. Scholars take classes over the course of two summers, as well as on Wednesday afternoons and all day Saturdays during the fifth grade school year. Also, scholars can expect between 1 to 2 hours of homework to complete their assignments for Rainier Scholars, in addition to regular school work. Scholars are not expected to give up all other activities, but they are expected to prioritize Rainier Scholars during the 14-month Academic Enrichment phase. Program commitments are less intense after that.
Do all scholars go to private school?
No. Our goal is to prepare scholars for placement in the most rigorous academic settings, whether that is a private school or the Advanced Learning Program in a public school. School choice is a personal matter, and we support families in whatever choice they believe is best for their child.