Assuming you are an auto-admit to UT and would be happy to attend that school, then it is fine to only apply to schools you would prefer. I would caution that each of these schools will have supplements so I would stress that it is important to spend the time necessary to do a very good job on each individual supplement even if it means cutting down the list of schools you apply to. And if you go this route, you need to go into the process understanding that UT might end up as your only option in the end.
OP’s other thread at http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1861937-question-about-admission-chance.html indicates a rank within the top 4%, but does not mention state residency or intended major. The OP does mention doing summer activity (in biology) in a place in New York.
So it is not clear whether Texas can be a safety (if it is not a safety, it is probably a reach).
I like to have two safeties, just so that if worst comes to worst you have two choices in the spring. I have no objections to reach-heavy lists as long as the student is realistic about being okay about attending the safety. I trust that the OP is an auto-admit to U. Texas.
We told both of our daughters to apply to 4 or 5 colleges. One being a safety.
If you’re applying for financial aid through the FAFSA, the max amount of colleges is 10…
Not true, @kayxbee. Here’s how you send the FAFSA to more than 10 schools. https://fafsa.ed.gov/help/fotwfaq14.htm
Let’s say you don’t get into the top schools…will you wish you had other options besides UT?