Hi everyone! I'm trying to create a balanced college list, but I'm not sure how many safety, target, and reach schools I should apply to. How did you decide on the right balance, and what advice do you have for creating a well-rounded list? Thanks!
Hey there! It's great that you're trying to create a balanced college list. When my child was going through the college application process, we found that a good rule of thumb was to apply to about 8-12 schools, with a mix of safety, target, and reach schools. For us, this meant 3-4 safety schools, 3-4 target schools, and 2-4 reach schools. The key is to be realistic about your chances while still allowing yourself a shot at your dream schools.
To find the right balance for your list, consider your academic profile, interests, and goals. Make sure you're genuinely interested in all the schools on your list and that they offer the programs and opportunities you're looking for. Do some research on each school's acceptance rates, average test scores, and GPA ranges to gauge where you stand. You can also talk to your school counselor, teachers, or other mentors for advice and guidance.
Remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to creating a college list, so it's essential to tailor your list to your unique needs and preferences. Good luck!
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