How many schools should I apply to?

There are many different opinions on this question...

Don't Procrastinate like this girl..... Get the real answers from the real professionals: AP Language Arts Students

A Good Rule to Go by is the 2-2-1 Rule

"A-C-C-E-P-T-E-D!!"

2 Safe Schools: Schools that you know that you will get into.

2 Match Schools: Schools that would probably accept you as well as satisfy you.

1 Dream School: This is a school that you may be in love with, a school with angels looking over the students singing hymns of bliss, a school that you wish to go to, but may not accept you.

There are many different types of this rule, this is only one of them. (There is also a 2-3-3 Rule.)

**You can change this rule to fit the amount of schools you want to apply to, but remember to always keep at least two safe schools on your list.**

**Otherwise, you may add schools or decide not to apply at a dream school.**

Counselor's Advice

Some counselor's recommend applying to only 5 colleges while others recommend up to 12.
Ultimately it is YOUR choice, but do NOT overload yourself with work.
Do not apply to a school that you know you will not enjoy attending-even if it is a 'safe school'. DUH.
Starting with a longer list of schools is good but make sure to research all of the schools you are interested in before narrowing down your list. Try not to be partial towards one school until you have research all schools even though this may be very difficult.
If you are planning on applying to more selective schools (i.e. Harvard, Yale, ect.) it may be better to apply to more schools; this should be including two 'safety schools' and at least two 'match schools'.
For those who are really in a financial bind, the three-application method may work best. (One safe school, one match school, and one dream school)

Websites That May Help

http://collegeapps.about.com/od/choosingacollege/f/HowManySchools.htm, About.com

http://www.collegeadmissionspartners.com/college-admissions-counseling/how-many-colleges-applications/, College Admissions Partners

http://www.cliffsnotes.com/Section/How-Many-Colleges-Should-You-Apply-To-.id-305414,articleId-114864.html, Cliffs Notes

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/apply/the-application/151680.html, CollegeBoard

Deciding on Which Schools to Apply to

When you are applying to colleges, you should look at the Most Important Factors to help you make a decision based on your likes and dislikes: