Here at Options, we get this question a lot. Students and parents alike want to know what the right number of Canadian post-secondary institutions to apply to is, and while we have a pretty solid answer for most students, there’s a lot to consider when you’re narrowing down your list.
Four to Six Schools
This is traditionally our answer to students applying to Canadian post-secondary institutions. Applying to four to six schools gives students enough breadth in their applications so that they can include a variety of locations, program choices, and admissions requirements. In addition, limiting the list in this way ensures that students aren’t overwhelmed by the amount of work that goes into each application and keeps the cost of applying to post-secondary within reason. Remember, you can only go to one school next fall, so it’s okay to be choosey about where you submit your applications.
Other Things to Consider
Beyond simply thinking about how many institutions you plan to apply to, it’s also important to consider your application strategy.
- Start by considering the type of program you plan to apply to and which schools offer it. Do you want to only apply to one program type or would you like to have different options on the table in the spring?
- Then, consider the admissions requirements as well as supplemental requirements like essays and interviews. Do you meet the requirements? Do you have the time and resources to complete any extra application components?
- Finally, think about other aspects of the school that appeal to you. Do you want to apply to only schools that are close to home? How big do you want your first-year classes to be? Is experiential learning important to your education? Does the school offer the chance to play the sport you love?
Be Flexible
It’s important to remember that while applying to four-six different schools is our general rule of thumb, it doesn’t apply to every student in every situation. Students applying to competitive business or engineering programs will often see bigger lists, while students considering close-to-home schools with small class sizes may only apply to two or three institutions. At the end of the day, what matters most is that every school on your list has a reason to be there.
If you need help narrowing down your list of schools, read more about our talented consultant team and contact our front desk to book your virtual appointment.
