Building a List

How do I know what colleges to apply to?

When creating the list of schools you want to apply to, it is important to consider match and fit:

• Match refers to your grades, test scores, rank, and GPA compared to a college's admissions requirements/averages.

• Fit refers to factors that align with your personal preferences and needs such as:

• Majors and programs available

• Location

• Size

• Cost

• Clubs

Once you consider all the factors, start building a balanced list. A balanced college list contains a likely, a target, and a reach school.

• Likely:

  • Your academic credentials (i.e. GPA and test scores) are above the schools range/average for admitted students

• Reach:

  • Your academic credentials are at the lower end or below the schools range/average for admitted students

• Target:

  • Your academic credentials are within the schools range/average for admitted students

Be sure to take note of the admissions deadlines and scholarship deadlines for each school you are interested in. At the bottom of the page you can find a helpful worksheet!