<p>Hi there,
It's been easy enough to put down schools that would be considered "reaches" on my list, but realistically I should probably have a few "matches" so that I don't kid myself too much with this entire application process. Just from my stats, could I please get suggestions for some schools that are within my academic ballpark?</p>
<p>Asian male in Arizona
Taking the most rigorous schedule at my school
UW GPA: 4.0
W GPA: 4.5 (will probably increase next semester)
Rank: ~ 1/550
SAT I: 2220 (1530 M+CR)
SAT II: Bio M - 790; Math I - 770; US Hist - 750; Lit - 720</p>
<p>I think that places Northwestern, Rice, Emory, Vanderbilt, U Chicago, Carnegie Mellon, Hopkins, Notre Dame, Georgetown, and WUSTL are matches for you. You should also be fine at the top public universities and top LACs. You are a good candidate at the Ivies, etc, but so are a lot of other people, so it just depends on their mood that day. You should be a good candidate at the easier Ivies, for sure. Just have enough of the matches on your list, and a safety, and you should be fine. Make sure that you can afford these places, though. No sense applying to a lot of top schools unless you can afford it or are eligible for the aid that they have available (which is usually based on low family income, not on merit).</p>
<p>You have a great shot at a lot places like OneMom said. I think the Ivies are a good possibility. Just don't count on HYPS but again, it could happen. I think you are a lower match for you is Cornell. Also places like Rice and JHU are definitely in your match range.</p>
<p>Thanks for all these initial suggestions. Actually, many of the colleges mentioned so far are under the "reach" column of my lists. I wonder if there are some comparable colleges maybe "a step down" where acceptance may be a bit more likely (ie. my numbers are stronger in their applicant pool). I'll be a candidate for need based aid, so colleges offering it will definitely be desired.
Also, what kind of LACs are within range for me?</p>