<p>The college admissions process is wearing; I certainly do not need to tell this to any of you. Lots of people have difficulty finding even one college that suits their needs and wants, but me? I have, to date, eighteen schools on my prospective list -- a few reaches, a few matches, and a few safeties, because I am paranoid about being waitlisted or rejected. More than that, there are aspects to each one that draw me to them, and I can't really eliminate any of them without feeling as though I am missing something. Considering that I have already finished nine applications, have fee waivers and some of them are completely free for everybody, is this too many?</p>
<p>I think the average last year was moving toward 10 apps. 3 safe, 3 match, 3 reach, and one more of one of those. Certainly, 18 would be excessive. Some schools limit the number of refs they will send out, in case you are at one of those and did not realize it.</p>
<p>Well, the counselor only needs to send out one for five SUNY schools, but I see what you mean. I'm indecisive.</p>
<p>If you think you are indecisive now, imagine what it will be like in April when you have to choose one of the eighteen to attend. Try grouping them in pairs - ones that you see as similar in selectivity and type of school. Then choose the ONE in each pair you would choose over the other, and keep that one on your list. That would make a final list of nine. If your list of eighteen is balanced between safeties, matches and reaches, your resulting list of nine will be as well. Good luck!</p>