One of the most common questions we receive from college-bound students is, “How many schools should I apply to?” It’s a crucial question, and the answer can vary depending on several factors. Let’s explore some key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

School Policies

First and foremost, it’s essential to consider the policies at your school regarding the number of college applications allowed. Many schools have specific guidelines to ensure that students apply purposefully and genuinely. For example, the limit at many international schools is 10 applications per student.

Loopholes and Options

While there may be a set limit, there are often loopholes to explore. For instance, at the international schools I worked at, here is what we would do: in the province of Ontario, Canada, a student could apply to as many schools within the province as they would like, and all of these would be counted as one application, but each school has its own fee so it can quickly become costly. Similarly, in the UK, a student can apply to up to five schools for a single fee, and this would be counted as one application also. The UC system in California would also count as one application, and their system has up to nine schools a student can apply to.

Quality Over Quantity: Focus on Research and Range

Although loopholes can allow students to apply to many more than 10 schools, it isn’t recommended. That many applications can be both time-consuming and expensive. Instead, focus on quality over quantity. Do your research and aim for a well-rounded list of schools, including reach, target, and safety options. Aim for 2-3 reasonable reach schools where you’re statistically slightly out of the typical acceptance range, 3-4 target schools where you’re fairly confident of acceptance, and the remainder as safety schools where you’re confident in admission. All of the schools should be institutions that you would be happy to attend and that are a ‘fit’ for you. With a carefully curated application list, you should ideally receive offers from at least four schools. If not, it may indicate that you’ve taken too much risk in your selections. Although the list of schools a student ultimately applies to is up to the student and parents, it’s important to get the eyes of a seasoned university counseling professional to look at the list as well. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve had students say something to the effect of Bowdoin or Carnegie Mellon would be one of their safety schools…….enough said.

Consider Time and Energy

For students at schools with no application limit, the decision ultimately comes down to time, cost, and prioritising where your focus is. Applying to colleges takes considerable time and energy, so it’s essential not to let it distract you from your academic commitments. I also advise students that they should not be applying to schools that they have no interest in attending, and I’ll go as far as to suggest that not only is it a waste of their time and money, but it’s also disrespectful to the admission staff at that school. The application process should not be looked upon as a fishing derby where the student with the most offers or the most scholarship funding wins, and it is this approach that helps fuel the application madness that unfolds year after year.

The number of colleges you should apply to depends on various factors, including school policies, financial considerations, and your personal capacity. Focus on quality over quantity, do your research, and aim for a well-balanced list of schools. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the college application process with confidence and clarity.