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<p>It’s an art, not a science, and depends in part on what level of school she’s competitive for. If she’s a legitimate candidate for the more selective schools - say, has a SAT of 2100+, an unweighted GPA at or near 4, and has taken the most rigorous program of study available at her high school - then you basically cast a broad net, because it’s impossible to predict what schools she will get into. (These schools practice so-called “holistic” admissions, and no one can tell from year to year exactly what they’re looking for.)</p>
<p>On the other hand, if she’s one of the 95% of kids who stand no real chance for the most selective schools, things get a big easier. For high-probability admissions, look for schools where she falls somewhere around the 75th percentile of SAT scores (the 25th-to-75th percentile range is available for almost all schools) and has a GPA or class rank that is at least as good as the average for that school. For schools where she is not a lock to get in but still stands a reasonable chance, look for colleges where she falls within that 25th-to-75th percentile range and has a GPA or class rank that’s better than the low end of their admitted students.</p>
<p>And oh, did I mention - make sure you have at least one financial safety, a school (1) she’d like to attend, (2) can for sure get in, and (3) you can afford even with the most pessimistic financial aid picture.</p>