All ABC Scholars undergo a rigorous admissions process to become a part of the program.

• First, teachers, administrators, guidance counselors, ABC Alumni, and other volunteers nationwide identify promising students and recommend that they look into the ABC program. These students demonstrate both academic talent and strong motivation to succeed.

• Each candidate completes the application requirements of the national program, including multiple questionnaires and the SSAT or ISEE.

• As we review applications, we look for specific criteria which includes demonstrated motivation, academic achievement (tests scores and grades), excellence as reflected in recommendations, demonstrated leadership skills, independence, readiness to leave home, and strengths and passions apart from academics.

• The top candidates are invited to come to Madison for a couple of days to interact with current ABC Scholars, our Resident Staff, and the Madison ABC Selection Committee, and to visit Daniel Hand High School.

• Madison ABC then selects the students who best match and might benefit from the educational, cultural, and social opportunities our program has to offer and makes the final decisions on which student or students are invited to participate in the Madison ABC Program.