Is applying to too many colleges a bad idea?

Hi all, I'm working on my college list and I'm worried that I might be applying to too many colleges. Is there a downside to applying to a large number of schools? How many colleges should I aim to apply to? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!

Hi there! It's great that you're being thoughtful about your college list. I can share some insights based on my experience with my child who recently went through the college application process. The ideal number of colleges to apply to varies depending on each student's unique situation. Generally, a balanced list ranges from 8 to 12 colleges, with a mix of reach, target, and safety schools. However, some students may choose to apply to more or fewer schools, depending on their preferences and resources.

Applying to too many colleges can have some downsides. First, the application process can be time-consuming and expensive – application fees, sending test scores, and other related costs can add up quickly. Second, it can be more challenging to craft well-written, personalized essays for a large number of schools. Lastly, having too many choices can make the decision-making process more difficult when you receive your acceptances.

Ultimately, it's important to focus on the quality of your applications, rather than the quantity. Spend time researching and visiting schools to ensure you're applying to colleges that are a good fit for your academic, social, and financial needs. Best of luck with your applications!