🎯 How to Build Your U.S. College List

One concerning question during application season is: “Which schools should I apply to?”

Building a smart college list isn’t just about your academic profile or interests—it’s also about strategy, especially when it comes to Early Decision and Early Action school planning.

📝 Step 1: Build a Long List (~20 schools)

Start with self-reflection. Ask yourself:

• Do I prefer a big city or a small town?

• Liberal arts college or national research university?

• Is my intended major strong at this school? 

• How do my GPA, test scores, and activities compare to those of other applicants for this school?

• What’s my family’s budget? Do I need merit or need-based aid?

✅ Step 2: Narrow Down to an Official List (10-15 schools)

Suggested structure:

• Reach Schools (3–4)

• Target Schools (7-8)

• Safety Schools (3-4)

⏰ Step 3: Prioritize Early Applications (ED/EA)

📌 Step 4: Plan ED Strategy Carefully

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