Should I apply to more reach schools or more safety schools?

Hey guys! I'm working on my college list and I'm not sure how many reach and safety schools to include. I want to make sure I have a good chance of getting into at least one school, but I also don't want to sell myself short. What balance of reach and safety schools would you recommend? Thanks!

Hi there! It's great that you're being thoughtful about your college list. The ideal balance will vary depending on your individual circumstances, but a good rule of thumb is to have a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. Reach schools are those where your chances of admission are lower, match schools are where your academic profile aligns well with the average admitted student, and safety schools are where you have a high likelihood of being admitted. A common suggestion is to apply to 2-3 reach schools, 2-3 match schools, and at least 2 safety schools. This way, you're giving yourself a shot at your dream schools while ensuring you have options if things don't work out as planned. Make sure to research each school thoroughly and genuinely consider if you'd be happy attending them, even your safety schools. Ultimately, it's important to remember that the college you attend does not define your success; it's what you make of the experience that counts. Best of luck with your applications!