🏫 Guide to Building Your Perfect College List

Making your college list can feel like a huge task — there are so many schools, and it’s easy to get stuck wondering where to even start. This guide will help you build a list that actually fits you: your goals, your vibe, and your future.

✅ What Is a College List?

Your college list is the set of schools you’re planning to apply to. A strong list usually includes a mix of:

  • Reach Schools – Higher admission standards; might be a stretch

  • Match Schools – Your stats line up with admitted students

  • Likely/Safety Schools – You're very likely to get in

The goal: a balanced list that gives you options, fits your goals, and keeps stress low.

🎯 Step 1: Know What Matters to You

Start by asking yourself:

  • Do I want a big school or small school?

  • City, suburb, or somewhere quieter?

  • What kind of majors or programs am I interested in?

  • How far from home do I want to be?

  • Do I want strong research, internships, sports, or arts?

It’s okay not to know all the answers — this is just a starting point.

Pro Tip: Think about vibe. You’ll be living there! Picture yourself on campus — what feels like a good fit?

📊 Step 2: Research (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

Use tools like:

  • BigFuture by College Board

  • Niche

  • College websites themselves

Start adding schools to a simple spreadsheet or list with notes like:

  • Size

  • Location

  • Acceptance rate

  • Strong programs

  • Initial thoughts (“seems cool,” “too far,” “visit?”)

Try to narrow down to 15–20 schools at first — then refine to your final 8–12.

⚖️ Step 3: Balance Your List

A well-balanced list typically includes:

  • 2–3 Reach schools

  • 4–6 Match schools

  • 2–3 Likely or safety schools

Keep in mind:

  • Admissions are unpredictable, even for strong students

  • Financial aid matters too — more on that below 👇

💰 Step 4: Think About Cost (Early!)

It’s smart to look at:

  • Net price calculators on college websites

  • Which schools offer merit scholarships

  • If you qualify for need-based aid (use FAFSA4caster or MyinTuition)

Don’t rule out a school just because of the sticker price. Private colleges often give more aid than people expect.

🔍 Step 5: Visit (or Explore Online)

If you can, visiting a campus is the best way to get a feel. If not, check out:

  • Virtual tours on YouTube or school websites

  • Webinars or info sessions

  • Student reviews or TikToks (honestly, they’re helpful)

🧠 Final Tips

  • Keep your list organized — spreadsheet, Notion board, or even sticky notes

  • Revisit and revise — your list will probably change (that’s okay!)

  • Don’t compare your list to anyone else’s — this is your journey

Need Help Making Sense of It All?

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just want a second opinion, I offer 1:1 college list support — including building your list from scratch or reviewing what you already have.

👉 Check out my services here

You’ve got this. Start small, stay curious, and trust yourself 💛