Narrowing your list of schools to a manageable number may be your hardest job yet. You might benefit from a few tips and decision strategies:

• Compare the pros and cons of each school on your list: Get your files and review your notes to compare schools. If you haven't done it already, you might want to make a list of pros and cons for each school to help organize your thinking.

• Group school choices by your chance of being admitted: Once you go through the pros and cons, sort your files into three groups:
  • Reach schools—represent an admission challenge either by cost, admission requirements, or both.
  • Mid-range schools—where you're likely to get accepted, but you're not sure.
  • Safety schools—where you're sure to be admitted and know you can afford.

• Make your final list: Include schools from each category on your list and rank them by preference. Most counselors suggest including a number of reach and mid-range schools, as well as one or two safety schools. Give careful thought to your choices.

Applying early: If you are sure about your school choice, you might want to consider early admissions at that school.

Pick up some pointers on making the most of school visits.