Most students Apply to 4 or fewer schools

<p>My son’s high school limited applications to eight. I thought this was 1) none of their business and 2) too few for kids who were attracted to highly selective schools. That was three years ago. I would now say that eight is way, way too few (and still none of their business). </p>

<p>I have no argument whatsoever with a “well targeted list.” I also have no dispute with a list that assures that the applicant WILL get into a least one school. I take to heart the advice “build from the bottom up” and thus recommend one or two safeties, three or four solid matches. </p>

<p>It’s when we get to the reach category that I disagree. If – for whatever reason – you aspire to a super-selective, then you’d best find 3 to 4 more with similar personalities to add to your list. If I throw in an EA or rolling for good measure I come up with 11. Add to that schools with merit opportunities, the list could easily expand to 14-15. A lot of work, yes, but to me, NOT a shot-gun, unfocused strategy.</p>

<p>You may end up going to a match or your safety and this may end up being a good thing. I have no argument there. What I’m trying to say is that super-selectives are unpredictable so if Brown, for example, is your heart’s desire and your profile is within reason, then go ahead and apply to Swarthmore, Columbia and Yale as well. You may ultimately choose Smith (again, just for example) and be happy as a clam, but at least you’ll know that you gave the reach category your best shot. The goal as I see it is to empower the applicant and as has been pointed out, if you don’t apply you for sure won’t get in.</p>