How Balanced Is Your College List?

Question 1

How many schools on your list would you describe as 'likely' or 'safety' schools — where you're confident you'll be admitted?

Accepted Answer

Three or more; Two; One; None — every school on my list is a reach or match

Question 2

Do you have at least one school on your list where you're confident your family can afford to attend, with or without financial aid?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we've run the net price calculator and confirmed it; Yes — but we haven't verified the actual net cost; We think so, but we're not sure; No — cost is a concern we haven't fully addressed

Question 3

Have you considered using Early Decision (ED) as part of your application strategy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — I've identified a first-choice school and understand how ED affects my odds and financial aid; I've thought about it but haven't decided on an ED school; I've heard of ED but don't have a clear first-choice school; No — I'm planning to apply Regular Decision everywhere

Question 4

How thoroughly have you researched each school on your list?

Accepted Answer

I've visited, attended info sessions, or done in-depth research — and can explain why each school is a specific fit for me; I've researched most schools with moderate depth; I've done surface-level research — rankings, location, and major offered; I selected schools primarily based on name recognition or general reputation

Question 5

How many schools are currently on your college list?

Accepted Answer

8–14 schools with a clear reach, match, and likely breakdown; 5–7 schools; 15 or more — my list is long and not yet curated; Fewer than 5 schools

Question 6

Are you aware of merit aid opportunities at any schools on your list?

Accepted Answer

Yes — I've identified schools where my profile is competitive for merit scholarships; I've looked at a few schools' merit aid options; I know merit aid exists but haven't researched it for my specific list; I've only focused on need-based aid, or haven't thought about merit aid