CREATING A COLLEGE LIST

Need for Creating a College List

  • Safety School: a student is highly likely to be accepted into this type of school (over 80% chance of acceptance). I recommend you choose five for the sake of balance, then narrow your list.
  • Match/Target School: a student matches the school profile of previously accepted students (40%-60% chance of acceptance). I recommend you choose five for the sake of balance, then narrow your list.
  • Reach/Dream School: acceptance to these schools may be a long shot due to a more competitive admissions process. Something in your academic profile may be on the low side in comparison to the school’s profile (3%-5% chance of acceptance to highly selective schools such as, Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Princeton, Stanford, Berkley, etc.). I recommend you choose one for the sake of balance, then narrow your list.
  • Far Reach School: While a reach school is one that you might have a slight chance of acceptance, a far reach school is one that is unlikely to offer admission. Your academic profile will fall short of the admissions averages when looking at the school’s profile. I recommend you apply to at least one, then narrow your list.

Things for Students to Consider When Choosing College/University

Factors College Admissions Representatives Consider When Reviewing Applications for Prospective Students

Hard Factors

Soft Factors