<p>If your dad is concerned with future earnings ("it's the name on the degree that counts," for instance, makes me think this), perhaps he might be persuaded by the study that shows, no, it isn't. I haven't read the book myself, but on another thread someone said the book Harvard Schmarvard discusses the study. I remember the study being in the news when it first came out as well.</p>
<p>It was a comparison of the earnings of those who attend elite schools versus those who were admitted to elite schools but decided to go elsewhere. There was no difference. In other words, the higher average earnings of those who go to prestige schools is explained by their overall ability. People with the same ability who go elsewhere manage to earn the same amount.</p>
<p>Perhaps your father comes from a place where one's success is highly determined by the college. If so, perhaps knowing this isn't true here might make a difference?</p>
<p>I'm not saying that pricey schools may not be worth it for some reason. But some sort of generalized prestige equals higher earnings equation is not correct.</p>
<p>If you are indeed somehow forced to apply places, it can be rather easy not to be accepted. Interview and then when you are asked "why college x?" answer truthfully. I don't think college x will want you. </p>
<p>Perhaps there is some way of showing him that this many applications will mean you can't spend enough time on any one or will have to cut into your academics or ECs.</p>
<p>I didn't see where you've mentioned the field you are interested in. If you can show your dad how good the whatever program is at the schools you like and the high percentages of students from those schools that get into med/law/grad school or whatever, perhaps he will relent a bit. Find the names of prominent alums, etc.</p>
<p>Or try to find some reasons why you would be happier at certain schools than at others. If he comes to believe you can be both successful and happy with the schools you like, he may come around.</p>
<p>I realize this post is full of "perhaps" and "may" and "might." Sorry I can't give you a surefire solution!</p>
<p>One last thought -- Will your father acquiesce in an ED application and let you choose the school? If you get in, it is a "trophy" of sorts and you are spared all the other applications. Naturally, this won't work if he wouldn't let you pick the school and wants it to be to a school you don't like.</p>