Applying to Schools

To how many Universities should I Apply?

Whilst it might seem like a good idea to apply to lots of universities to improve your options, this is not always the best course of action.

In Ireland, applications to Irish universities are completed through the Central Applications Office (CAO). You can apply for a maximum of 10 courses across a number of universities.

In the UK, where applications are made via a centralized system, you can apply to a maximum of five universities. The suggested logic is that you should make two applications that are aspirational (i.e., above your predictions), two applications that are target (i.e. in line with your predictions) and one that is a safety application (i.e. below your predictions).

In the US where you apply to individual colleges, you should apply to no more than nine universities. Choose three which are aspirational, three that you consider to be target and three for safety.

You should really want to attend any university to which you apply and if you are applying to universities in the EU, Switzerland, Canada or other countries, you should try to limit all of your applications to no more than twelve.

What about Ivy League Schools?

Ask Yourself Some Questions

Is this what you really want? Have you done your research? Are the courses at these universities right for you? Do you understand how learning works at these institutions? Do you think you will flourish at these universities or on these courses?

Be Realistic

Are you consistently top of your class scoring near full marks? If not, these courses are probably not right for you. Is your idea of a fantastic afternoon curling up with a book and reading about your subject? If not, why would you want to apply to an intellectually elite university?

Are you an outstanding all-rounder or exceptionally good at something? If not, Ivy League universities are unlikely to be interested in you.

Prepare

If you think that you are academically and personally right for these universities, or wish to test whether you are, make sure you speak to the Higher Education Counselling team. Before you do so check what tests you will need to take.

Keep a journal of everything that you read or do that is pertinent to your proposed course, analysing what you read and do and making links between this and other aspects of your learning.