How many should I apply to?

ivygates
Tue, 16 May 2017 20:50:57 +0000

My parents, esp Mom, say that they would be willing to pay for as many apps as I want and that I should apply to all the schools I want to. I’m a pretty indecisive person though, so that just makes me feel more confused…

There are lots of safeties that I want to apply to as well as reaches. So where do I stop? 5? 15? 20? I know my parents are fine with paying, but I don’t want to just throw money away. At the same time, reaches especially are tempting just because “what if” I could get into that amazing school…
Is there a smart goal or medium number to shoot for? How many safeties should I apply for? How many targets, and how many reaches?