How many schools to apply?

EvoViro
Fri, 29 May 2009 14:26:05 +0000

^^^ Seriously? Ten?

The more applications sent out, the less attention each school gets. I’d say cut it down to seven max, then spend that extra time cultivating relationships with prospective PIs, polishing the SOPs, and really getting to know each program’s details. They want to see an applicant who shows enthusiasm for their specific program and knows why it’s a good personal fit, not someone casting a wide, generic net. Perhaps that’s why people with top grades and scores weren’t getting in as many places as they expected. Too many apps means each school may perceive themselves as an afterthought. The better you get to know programs before application time, the more informed your application choices will be. Open-minded is great, but so is making the most of your time and money by getting in fewer, but better, applications.