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Apply College
Apply College
How many colleges should you apply to the maximum? #college
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Veronica’s Answer
A good rule of thumb is probably about 5. You should have at least one application that'll fulfill these three options:
1. You should make sure your dream college makes the list (even if you're not sure you'll get in) because you might just get a surprise yes!
2. You should make sure you have a safety college (one you know you'll get into, even if it's not the most exciting place). As long as you wouldn't be completely miserable there (because mental health is important, too), keep it on the list as a plan C.
3. Colleges/universities that interest you for one reason or another. Don't just look at colleges you know. Broaden your horizons. You might find something that suits you in ways you weren't thinking of.
Things to consider when looking into possibilities:
1. Finances. Will your parents be helping you? Will you be relying on student aid? Should you stay closer to family to avoid paying out of state tuition (or even save money on dorms)? The last thing you want to do is overburden yourself while you're in school.
2. Goals. What are your short term career goals? What are your long term career goals? Choosing a school that's rated well for your goals is vital. If it's not getting you closer to your goals, it's just an expensive waste of time.
3. Whether or not the college/university has programs in place to help you land your internship(s) or first role. Every school will help you find something in one way or another, but it's certainly easier if they can name their programs and give solid advice.
4. Your learning style. Everyone learns differently. Will larger classes be more helpful, or smaller classes? Do you need labs? what is most beneficial for you?
5. The campus environment. Are there extracurricular activities, clubs and social mixers present that interest you? Having hobbies and meeting people who share the same interests as you can help you create a support system and life-long friends. Do you like the climate of the area? Will you feel comfortable there?
It can be overwhelming to start looking at colleges, and I'm sure there are tons of questions swimming around in your mind. Don't worry. You'll find where you belong. Transferring schools isn't that hard if you do end up needing to make a change.
1. You should make sure your dream college makes the list (even if you're not sure you'll get in) because you might just get a surprise yes!
2. You should make sure you have a safety college (one you know you'll get into, even if it's not the most exciting place). As long as you wouldn't be completely miserable there (because mental health is important, too), keep it on the list as a plan C.
3. Colleges/universities that interest you for one reason or another. Don't just look at colleges you know. Broaden your horizons. You might find something that suits you in ways you weren't thinking of.
Things to consider when looking into possibilities:
1. Finances. Will your parents be helping you? Will you be relying on student aid? Should you stay closer to family to avoid paying out of state tuition (or even save money on dorms)? The last thing you want to do is overburden yourself while you're in school.
2. Goals. What are your short term career goals? What are your long term career goals? Choosing a school that's rated well for your goals is vital. If it's not getting you closer to your goals, it's just an expensive waste of time.
3. Whether or not the college/university has programs in place to help you land your internship(s) or first role. Every school will help you find something in one way or another, but it's certainly easier if they can name their programs and give solid advice.
4. Your learning style. Everyone learns differently. Will larger classes be more helpful, or smaller classes? Do you need labs? what is most beneficial for you?
5. The campus environment. Are there extracurricular activities, clubs and social mixers present that interest you? Having hobbies and meeting people who share the same interests as you can help you create a support system and life-long friends. Do you like the climate of the area? Will you feel comfortable there?
It can be overwhelming to start looking at colleges, and I'm sure there are tons of questions swimming around in your mind. Don't worry. You'll find where you belong. Transferring schools isn't that hard if you do end up needing to make a change.
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You can apply to as many colleges as you want BUT you have to remember there's an application fee that has to be paid for each one so there's no need in applying and wasting money if you're not seriously considering enrolling in that particular school. Also, each application has different requirements which may include multiple essays. The more colleges you apply to the more essays you have to write and you probably won't be able to use the same essay across multiple schools. As far as a specific number, I always thought 3-4 was manageable. Each school has specific deadlines that must be met and if you have to many schools to deal with, you may miss them.
Updated
Damion’s Answer
That depends on how you are doing in school I guess as well as your family's finances.
If you have the money you can apply to as many schools as you want.
I would recommend though that you apply to 4-7 and check with those schools about all of their requirements
for their admissions process.
Best wishes for your future!
If you have the money you can apply to as many schools as you want.
I would recommend though that you apply to 4-7 and check with those schools about all of their requirements
for their admissions process.
Best wishes for your future!