Republic School District is excited to celebrate Republic High School senior Will Payne, who has been selected as a QuestBridge Match Scholarship Recipient. This is one of the most prestigious and competitive full-ride scholarships in the nation! Will will attend Rice University in Houston, Texas, with all expenses fully covered for the next four years.
Through the QuestBridge National College Match program, Will earned a Match Scholarship directly from Rice University. This award covers the entire cost of attendance, including:
Tuition
Housing
Meals
Books and supplies
Travel expenses
With Rice’s annual cost of attendance totaling $94,987, this scholarship represents a remarkable investment in Will’s future and is a reflection of his hard work.
The QuestBridge National College Match is highly selective. This year:
25,000+ students applied nationwide
7,000 were named finalists
Only 2,550 students earned a Match Scholarship
As one of these recipients, Will receives early admission to Rice University and a guaranteed four-year, full-ride scholarship.
Please join us in congratulating Will Payne on this extraordinary accomplishment. We are #RepMOProud of his success and excited to see all he will achieve as a Rice Owl!

