Applying to Multiple Colleges

Has anyone ever wondered what's the greatest number of colleges a person has applied for? It seems like such a grueling process, so I'm wondering how far some people go with it.

While there's no definitive data on the absolute maximum number of colleges a student has applied to, it's not uncommon to hear of students applying to around 15-20 colleges, and sometimes even more. This trend has been driven, in part, by the increasing availability of the Common Application which allows students to apply to multiple colleges using one application.

While applying to many colleges can increase your chances of acceptance, it can also be a significant burden in terms of time, effort, and application fees. Each application typically requires a different supplement, writing in response to unique essay prompts, and demonstrating genuine interest in each school. Therefore, it's often recommended to focus on a strategic, targeted list of colleges where you fit academically, and which align with your personal and career goals.

Indeed, admission experts often recommend applying to about 8-12 schools broken down into three categories: 'reach' schools, where your chances of acceptance are lower; 'target' schools, where your qualifications align with the middle 50% of incoming students; and 'safety' schools, where you are likely to be accepted based on your qualifications. It’s a good idea to have 2-3 colleges in each category.

Keep in mind that application numbers can and do vary greatly depending on a student's context, aspirations, and financial considerations. What's most important is to apply to schools that are a good fit for you, rather than simply increasing the quantity of applications for the sake of it. Balance is key.