<p>Why don’t we do as the Brits do? The USAC system (I think that’s what it’s called) only lets you apply to 5 schools max. And if applying to Oxford or Cambridge, you can only apply to one. That shows which one you’re truly interested in.</p>
<p>Of course, this system does have its problems (ie not getting into any of your 5 schools), but I think the chances of getting into the school you want is much higher because the number of applications is much less.</p>