How to build a perfect college list

1. Define Your Priorities Ask yourself:

Academics: Desired majors/programs? Research opportunities?

Cost: Need for financial aid or scholarships? (Especially important for international students)

Location: Urban/rural? Region or weather preferences?

Size: Small liberal arts college vs. large research university?

Campus Life: Sports, clubs, diversity, values?

2. Know Your Profile Gather:

GPA (weighted & unweighted)

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

Extracurriculars and leadership roles

Intended major or academic interests

3. Research Schools Use tools like:

BigFuture

CollegeVine

Niche

University websites

Look for:

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

Programs offered

Campus culture

Financial aid policies (especially for international students if applicable)

4. Categorize Your Schools Aim for a list of 10–15 colleges, spread across:

🎯 Safeties (2–3): You’re almost certain to be admitted

🔁 Matches (3–5): You have a good chance

🚀 Reaches (3–5): Competitive, but worth trying

Be realistic but optimistic!

5. Evaluate Financial Aid and Scholarships Important for affordability:

Research need-based and merit-based aid

Check for full-ride or full-tuition scholarships

For international students, look for schools that meet full demonstrated need

Examples:

Amherst, Princeton (need-blind for internationals)

Duke, Vanderbilt (merit-based scholarships)

Berea College (full funding for internationals)

6. Visit (or Virtually Explore) Campuses Campus tours

Virtual info sessions

Student blogs or YouTube channels

📝 7. Create a Spreadsheet or Tracker Include columns for:

Name, location

Acceptance rate

Major availability

Average GPA/test scores

Cost of attendance

Financial aid/scholarship options

Notes on culture, opportunities, etc.

8. Review and Revise Make sure you love every school on your list

Drop ones that no longer fit

Add new ones as you discover them