Applying To University: How Many Is Too Many?

Applying to university is a daunting task, and deciding on how many to apply to can be challenging. In the UK, students can apply to five different courses on their applications. These can be the same course at five different universities, five different courses at the same university, or any combination of the two. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is the primary gateway for undergraduate applications in the UK and sets a limit of five choices on the UCAS application. This limit encourages applicants to focus on institutions and programmes that align with their goals and ensures students make thoughtful and well-researched choices. While there is no exact formula for the number of universities to apply to, most students apply to between four and eight. Applying to multiple universities can increase the chances of acceptance, but it is essential to consider the time, effort, and cost involved in submitting multiple applications.

Undergraduate vs graduate applications

Applying to universities can be a confusing and challenging process. The number of applications submitted by students varies, but most students apply to between 4 and 8 universities. The UK's application system, University and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), limits students to five applications. In the US, some application platforms set limits on the number of applications, while others are unlimited. For instance, the Common Application allows applications to 20 colleges, whereas the Coalition Application has no limit, although far fewer schools use this platform.

Undergraduate Applications

Undergraduate applications are centred on foundational knowledge across a range of fields. They are aimed at high school students or those seeking a bachelor's degree. The application process involves submitting transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. Undergraduate applications also take a more holistic approach, considering extracurricular activities, community service, and school involvement. Standardised test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are often required, although an increasing number of schools are moving away from this requirement.

Graduate Applications

Graduate applications, on the other hand, focus on specialised, advanced knowledge in a specific field. These applications are for individuals who have already completed a bachelor's degree and are seeking a master's, doctorate, or other advanced degrees. Graduate applications place greater emphasis on prior academic performance and relevant experience in the field. They often require a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and may also ask for a writing sample or research proposal. Graduate applications typically require the submission of scores from graduate-level exams, such as the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT.

Number of Applications

When deciding how many universities to apply to, it is important to consider factors such as application fees, time commitment, program availability, and the selectivity of the schools. While applying to more universities may increase the chances of acceptance, it can also be costly and time-consuming. A balanced approach is recommended, with a mix of safety, target, and reach schools. Safety schools are those where the student's grades and test scores are above the school's average, while target schools are those where the student's credentials fall within the accepted range. Reach schools, such as Ivy League institutions, are highly competitive and have low acceptance rates.

In conclusion, the number of university applications submitted by students varies, but it is generally recommended to apply to a handful of institutions, taking into account the student's qualifications, preferences, and the selectivity of the schools.

Application fees

The cost of applying to college can add up quickly, especially if you are applying to multiple universities. The average application fee is around $45 to $48 for US students, but the price can go up to $100. The average fee for Ivy League colleges is higher, at $80. The Common Application, used by over 900 colleges and universities, costs $60 per application. The Coalition Application, used by about 150 schools, does not limit the number of applications you can submit. However, each application through the Coalition Application costs $50. The UK’s application system, University and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), charges students £26.50 for their application submission. This allows students to apply to up to five courses at different universities.

Many colleges offer application fee waivers for students with financial need. 3 in 10 colleges waive application fees for students with financial need, and many Ivy League universities also offer this option. First-generation college students are also eligible for fee waivers at some universities. Students who are US citizens or permanent residents and whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree are eligible for a fee waiver at Georgia Tech.

Applying to 'backup' universities

When applying to universities, it is important to have a few backup options. While it is tempting to apply to as many universities as possible, this is not always the best method. The more universities you apply to, the higher your chances of acceptance. However, this approach has some downsides. University applications cost money and take time and effort. Applying to too many universities may result in lower-quality applications.

In the UK, the University and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS) limit students to five applications. Most students apply to between four and eight universities. It is recommended to divide these universities into three categories: safety, target, and reach.

• Safety Schools (1-2 colleges): Safety schools, also known as backup schools, are those where your grades, qualifications, and test scores are stronger than the school's average for admitted students. You only need to select one or two safety schools, but make sure you would be happy to attend them.
• Target Schools (2-3 colleges): Target schools, or match schools, are those where your grades and test scores fall within the accepted range of the school's most recent admitted class. While acceptance is not guaranteed, you should have a 40-60% chance of getting in. Applying to two or three target schools increases your chances of receiving an offer.
• Reach Schools (2-3 colleges): Reach schools, or dream schools, are those where your grades and credentials fall below the school's average for admitted students. Getting into a reach school is difficult, but not impossible. Your essays, extracurriculars, or other strengths may catch the attention of admissions officers.

If you are not accepted into any of your chosen universities, there are backup options to consider:

• Apply to a community college: Community colleges often have rolling admissions and provide foundational courses that can help you transfer to a four-year institution. They are typically less expensive, but ensure your credits will transfer.
• Take a gap year: A gap year can give you time to travel, work, or gain industry experience that will enhance your application for the next admissions cycle.
• Find a job or internship: If you know your major, consider a job or internship in that field to strengthen your application and provide additional material for your essay.
• Look into trade schools: Trade schools offer hands-on experience and a clear career path for those interested in a particular hobby or skill, such as electrical work or carpentry.
• Reapply: If there is a specific university you are determined to attend, you can always reapply in the future. Adding to your resume before reapplying may increase your chances of acceptance.

While it is important to keep your options open, avoid applying to universities that you are certain you would not want to attend. It is better to give clearing a shot or visit your backup options to see if they surprise you.

Applying to multiple courses

In the UK, undergraduate students can apply to up to five different courses or universities on their UCAS application. These can be the same course at five different universities, five different courses at the same university, or any combination in between. Applying to multiple courses at the same university can be advantageous if you are particularly interested in the institution and its offerings. However, it is generally recommended to have a few backup options at other universities as well.

When deciding how many and which courses to apply to, consider factors such as academic fit, location, entry requirements, campus facilities, and student satisfaction. Additionally, take into account the time and effort required for each application, as well as any associated costs. Aim for a well-balanced list that includes a mix of aspirational, realistic, and safe choices. Remember, quality is more important than quantity.

It is worth noting that the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge have special restrictions. Students can only apply to one of these universities through the UCAS platform and must submit their applications by October, earlier than other universities.

For graduate or postgraduate courses, the application process may differ. While there is typically no limit on the number of programmes you can apply to, applying to numerous institutions can be time-consuming and may impact the quality of your applications.

Application deadlines

Early Action

Early action deadlines are usually in early to mid-November, with admissions decisions typically made in December. This option is non-binding, meaning applicants can apply to multiple colleges. If you are deferred, your application will be pushed to the regular applicant pool for further evaluation. Some schools, such as Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Stanford, and the University of Notre Dame, have restrictive or single-choice early action programs, limiting applicants to applying to only one school under this category.

Early Decision

Early decision deadlines are similar to early action, with deadlines usually falling in November. Admissions decisions are also typically made in December. However, early decision involves a binding agreement to enrol, meaning that if you are accepted, you must pay a non-refundable deposit and withdraw all other college applications.

Regular Decision

Most students apply during regular decision, with deadlines commonly in December or January, and admissions decisions made in March or April. There are no restrictions on the number of schools you can apply to under regular decision.

Rolling Admission

Colleges with rolling admissions do not have set deadlines. Instead, they evaluate applications as they are received and typically offer several application windows per year. The application window usually opens in early September and remains open until the upcoming class is filled.

General Deadlines

While specific deadlines vary by university and application type, there are some general patterns. For the 2024-2025 academic year, early action and early decision deadlines were typically in November 2024, and regular decision deadlines were in January 2025.

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and most courses in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine/science have an application deadline of 18:00 UK time. The equal consideration date for applications for most undergraduate courses is 29 January 2025, after which universities and colleges do not guarantee to consider applications.

For US universities, the regular decision and fall intake deadlines for the 2024-2025 academic year were mostly in the first week of January 2025. Early decision deadlines were typically between November 2024 and January 2025, while spring intake deadlines were between October and November 2024.

Late Deadlines

Many colleges also offer late application deadlines, with some even accepting applications until the start of the college semester. These deadlines can vary from February to August, providing students with additional opportunities to apply.

Frequently asked questions