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Apply to HBC

Thank you for your interest in HBC! Unfortunately, the application deadline has passed for this summer's Habitat Bicycle Challenge. Though we select riders off the wait list after the initial application deadline, we will not accept any new applications at this time. By March 1st every year, our roster is finalized and we no longer accept riders off the wait list. This is to ensure that each rider has sufficient time to complete our safety and training programs and meet the fundraising deadlines.

The application process for Habitat Bicycle Challenge 2008 will begin in October 2007. The application will be available for download at this website and also be available to Yale students at our information sessions in the fall.

Since our humble beginning in 1994, HBC has grown every year and now accommodates 90 total riders, 30 riders on each of our 3 routes. As HBC has grown, the application process has become more competitive. In the past few years, we have received between 150 and 200 applications. Unfortunately, our resources limit expansion beyond three trips, so we sometimes have to make some difficult admissions decisions. The good news is that we always select riders off our wait list. Additionally, applicants who submit their applications early, express lots of interest and enthusiasm, have some cycling experience, demonstrate a commitment to HBC safety, training and fundraising, and show a commitment to community service almost always get selected. This does not mean that you have to be your school's cycling team captain or have significant cycling experience to do HBC. Every year, we have "beginner" and "moderately experienced" riders who complete HBC safely and successfully. But in order to do that you must demonstrate a commitment to the HBC safety and training programs.

To help you with the application process, we have provided a timeline and tips. We understand that college students love to do things last minute (and are usually pretty good at it!), but that philosophy won't work well with HBC. Getting your stuff in early and staying organized will definitely help your chances.

Application Timeline for HBC 2008

  • October 1, 2007: Application posted on website
  • November 14, 2007: Application Deadline
  • November 17, 2007: Riders notified of acceptance, pending completion of Medical and Physical forms
  • December 1, 2007: Medical and Physical forms deadline

Application Tips

*Get your stuff in early! We read applications in the order that they are received, so it is to your advantage to submit your materials as soon as you can.

*Have a clear fundraising plan. Our stronger applicants always submit the most detailed fundraising plans. Though we provide all of our riders with a thorough fundraising manual and give you lots of help once you become a member of the HBC team, we need to see your commitment to raising $4,000 for Habitat for Humanity.

*Get some cycling experience. Though we have beginners safely and successfully complete HBC every year, our stronger applicants usually have some cycling experience.

*Demonstrate a commitment to HBC safety and training. This is most important part of our riders' preparation for HBC. We need to know that you will be committed to training for the ride and follow all our safety protocols. Once you become a member of the HBC team, you'll receive our Safety and Training Manual to help you prepare for your cross-country adventure.

*Go Build! While experience volunteering on Habitat for Humanity build sites is not required, it will definitely be a boost to your application. Habitat affiliate are easy to find and are located all over the U.S. Go to www.habitat.org to find your nearest affiliate. Also, experience with non-profits or other community service organizations is a big plus.

If you have any questions about applying to HBC, please send an e-mail to habitatbike@gmail.com.