@theatrework there are a few things you can plan to try to help with the stress of this process. My D made a tiered list of schools (3 levels with 5ish schools each. Fortunately based more on her own factors rather than branding and with some diversity of program type) which I cross referenced with the possibility of getting a decision by Christmas.
We then made an effort to get her applications (and if needed prescreen/auditions) done first for both nonaudition safeties plus a couple auditioned ones - one second tier and one first.
The hope is that she can cut her list before the new year and enjoy her senior year. That’s the plan…