Originally Posted by NotSoGifted
... every student should apply to at least one, preferably two schools where they are almost certain to be admitted...
Absolutely!

The rule of thumb is to apply to schools which are a match, schools which are a reach (or dream school), and safety schools. A websearch on "college reach match safety" shows there are many articles about this, found online. Here are two:
- How to Choose Dream, Match, and Safety Schools, Princeton Review
- 3 types of schools you should consider when applying to college, USA Today, Feb 3, 2015, Jon Fortenbury
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