When you start putting together the “schools to explore” list, you should think about both the college choice criteria as well as the students' academic profiles to be admitted. Remember you do not need to stay at the top of the listed ranges. Still, being at the top of each range is no assurance of admission, especially at the most choosy institutions. But you should not panic. Many colleges (about 80%) admit more applicants than they deny, plus there is a university or college for (almost) everybody.

In addition, you should not eliminate schools from the “schools to explore” list due to the “sticker price”, because financial help (accessible in various forms) may lessen your cost of attendance. 

Besides, you should not count on the activities to enter a college. They can be the major component in your favor, though unless you have unique talent in music, athletics, etc., they won't prevent a misfortune for you. Strength of coursework, grades, plus standardized (SAT or ACT) scores carry more weight. You should understand that universities are typically more impressed by commitment to some co-curricular activities than restricted participation in many.

Also, you should not rule out schools whose names you don't recognize. You  can attend college fairs, meet college representatives attending your school, get acquainted with the literature that you get in the mail, speak with your counselor, plus use numerous great resources accessible online. You need to explore many options and hunt for information in an aggressive way.

Many colleges (about 80%) admit more applicants than they deny, plus there is a university or college for (almost) everybody.

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