How to build a perfect college list

1 – Define Your Priorities Ask yourself:

• Academics: What courses/programs are you looking for? Research opportunities?

• Cost: Do you need financial aid or scholarships? (Especially important for international students)

• Location: Urban or rural area? Preference for a specific region or climate?

• Size: Small liberal arts college or large research university?

• Campus life: Sports, clubs, diversity, values?

  
  

2 – Know Your Profile Gather the following information:

• High school GPA (weighted and unweighted)

• Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT/TOEFL/IELTS, if applicable)

• Extracurricular activities and leadership roles

• Intended major or academic interests

  
  

3 – Research Universities Use tools like:

• BigFuture

• CollegeVine

• Niche

  
  

Official university websites Look for:

• Admission stats (acceptance rate, average GPA/test scores)

• Offered programs

• Campus culture

• Financial aid policies (especially for international students, if applicable)

  
  

4 – Categorize Your Universities Build a list of 10 to 15 universities, divided into:

• 🎯 Safety Schools (2–3): You’re almost sure to get accepted

• 🔁 Match Schools (3–5): You have a good chance

• 🚀 Reach Schools (3–5): More competitive, but worth trying—be realistic, yet optimistic!

5 – Evaluate Financial Aid and Scholarships Important for affordability:

• Research both need-based and merit-based financial aid

• Check for full or partial scholarships

• For international students, look for schools that meet 100% of demonstrated need

• Examples:

• Amherst, Princeton (need-blind admission for international students)

• Duke, Vanderbilt (merit-based scholarships)

• Berea College (full funding for international students)

  
  

6 – Visit (or Virtually Explore) Campuses In-person campus tours

Virtual info sessions:

• Student blogs or YouTube channels

  
  

7 – Create a Spreadsheet or Tracker Include columns for:

• Name, location

• Acceptance rate

• Availability of your desired major

• Average GPA/test scores

• Total cost

• Financial aid/scholarship options

• Notes on culture, opportunities, etc.

  
  

8-Review

• Update and make sure you genuinely like every school on your list

• Remove: Eliminate any that no longer fit your criteria

• Add: Discover and include new options as you research