Step 2 - make a list

HOW MANY COLLEGES IS TOO MANY?? 

If you cannot recite all of the colleges you are applying to...

you are applying to too many schools.

common myths

• You need a perfect GPA to get in
  While strong grades and test scores help, colleges consider many other factors, such as extracurricular activities, essays, recommendations, and demonstrated interest. Some schools are also test-optional.

• More extracurriculars = A better application
  Quality matters more than quantity. Colleges prefer students who show deep involvement and leadership in a few meaningful activities rather than a long list of surface-level commitments.

• You must take the hardest classes possible
  While rigor is important, taking the absolute hardest course load at the expense of your mental health or grades can backfire. Colleges value balance and success in challenging, but appropriate, coursework.

• Admissions officers only care about academics
  There are many colleges that use a holistic admissions process, meaning they consider a student’s character, community involvement, unique experiences, and personal story alongside their academic performance.

• You have to know your major before applying
  Many students enter college undecided, and that’s okay! Most schools allow students to explore different subjects before declaring a major.

• Private colleges are always more expensive than public ones
  While sticker prices at private colleges are often higher, many offer generous financial aid that can make them more affordable than in-state public universities.

• There is a perfect match/dream school for everyone
  There are MANY great schools where students can achieve their degree and thrive. Just because there are some schools that are "bumper sticker" or well-known schools, it doesn't mean that is the best fit for you.

• Essays don't matter
  They DO matter and can be the difference between and acceptance and a deferral or a decline.

• Colleges don't care about my senior year classes
  No, they are absolutely considering the rigor of the courseload you take and many want your midyear grades reported to them. Yes, if you do poorly in semester one or semester two classes, your offer of admission CAN be rescinded.

• Every college has a quota for high school/state/region
  No, colleges don't have strict quotas, but they do consider geographic diversity and balance when building a class. Public universities do prioritize in-state students because they receive funding.