If you like multiple schools, how do you narrow it down?
When narrowing down a school, there are a few things you should look for. First, you should see or experience the college/university's environment whether through a virtual visit or a tour, so you have an idea of what it would be like if you attended that college/university. Second, if you know your major or an idea of what you want to do, look at their programs and see which one is the best and that suits you. Finally, if money concerns you, factor that in as well. Look at tuition rates, room & board, etc. Apply for scholarships/awards and fill out the FASFA form so that going to a college/university you want to go to is on the table. Also, take into account what traveling home costs will look like if your college/university is out of your home state.
How do you know if certain schools have better programs than others?
You can conduct your own research and look at all the different college/university programs. Look at the programs and think about which ones interest you the most and have the most opportunities. These will not only better your education and make good use of your money, but also the skills that you've learned from these programs will help you in the future with your field of work.
How many backup/safety schools is a good number?
Around one to three is the common number of safety schools people apply to.
How do I choose which teachers(s) should write recommendation letters?
When choosing teachers to write your letter of recommendation, you should consider who you may have had multiple years in a row, or what teachers you believe you have a strong relationship with. Sometimes the teachers you ask might say no- and that's okay! They also have a lot on their plate and might have to limit the number of letters of rec that they write. When deciding who you are asking, also consider the grades you received in that class, and the effort you put in/how much you participated/spoke in that class (you don't want to ask a teacher that doesn't even remember you!) If all of these factors are equal, you should also consider choosing a teacher in a field of interest or your prospective major. (e.g. if you plan on going into engineering ask a math or science teacher.)
What happens after I get accepted?
After you get accepted and make your decision about which college/university you will be attending, you will accept the admissions offer by following the instructions on the acceptance letter. Make sure to decline all the other colleges you got accepted to. Then you will start with finances, you'll first put down a deposit for the college and after that is done, start looking at tuition costs, room & board, etc. And then comes the fun parts, picking a roommate, signing up for freshman orientation, and before you know it, you'll be moving in and starting the next chapter of your life!
Why should I apply Early Action?
Applying Early Action is similar to applying Early Decision, but it is a non-binding process, so you still have the ability to apply to other schools and hear back early! When you apply using Early Action, you will hear back from a school pretty early, which can save a lot of stress in the second half of your senior year. Sometimes you won't hear back from schools until late March/early April, and typically the deadline for making a final decision on a school is May 1st. The Early Action application allows you to hear back earlier, and have more time to decide what college you would like to attend. Another advantage to applying Early Action is that the school you are applying to may be more likely to award you with merit, presidential, and other types of scholarships!
Why should I submit my scores if the college/university is test-optional?
Submitting your scores to a college/university that is test-optional will likely heighten your chances of admissions and some colleges/universities might give you money/financial awards such as a merit-based aid scholarship.