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How Many Graduate Programs Should I Apply To? Expert Advice for Grad School

How Many Graduate Programs Should I Apply To? Expert Advice for Grad School

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概要

 Welcome to Victors in Grad School, where we have conversations with students, alumni, and experts about what it takes to find success in graduate school. Welcome back to Victors in Grad School. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, Director of Graduate Programs at the University of Michigan, Flint. Really excited that you're back again this week. And today I don't have a guest. I am talking to you about some of the questions that I have gotten from over the time that we've been doing this podcast and over the years to try and help to answer some of your questions. And today, the question that we're going to be answering is, how many graduate programs should you apply to? If you've started researching graduate school, there's a moment that almost always happens. At first, it's exciting — you're exploring programs, imagining the possibilities, picturing yourself in a new career or stepping into a leadership role. You start bookmarking program pages, saving "how to apply" checklists, and telling yourself, Okay… I'm really doing this. And then… reality hits. You realize there are a lot of graduate programs out there. A LOT. You might find yourself asking: "Should I apply to just one program?""What if I only apply to two and don't get in?""What if I apply to ten and burn out halfway through?""What's the smart number?""What do people normally do?" If that's you — first, take a deep breath. You're not behind. You're not doing it wrong. And you're definitely not the only person trying to solve this puzzle. Today we're going to walk through this question together: How many graduate programs should you apply to? And I'll give you a clear recommendation — but even more importantly, I'll help you choose the right number for you. The honest answer: it depends… but not as much as you think I know "it depends" can be the most annoying answer ever, so let me say this upfront: Most prospective graduate students should apply to between 3 and 6 programs. That's not just a random number — it's the sweet spot where you: give yourself strong options,reduce risk of not getting in anywhere,and avoid overwhelming yourself with too many applications. But of course, there are reasons to apply to fewer… or more. So instead of giving you a number and sending you on your way, I want to help you decide: What's realistic for your time and energyWhat's appropriate for your fieldWhat's strategic for your goalsWhat gives you the best chance at admission and the best chance at success once you're in Because here's what I tell students all the time: Getting accepted matters… but choosing the right program matters more. Start with this: What kind of graduate applicant are you? Before we get into numbers, I want to ask you a question. When you picture applying to grad school, are you someone who: 1) Wants a clear, simple plan You want 2–3 strong options, you want to focus, and you want to avoid the stress of "too many choices." 2) Wants options and flexibility You want to be strategic, apply broadly, compare offers, and decide later. 3) Is feeling uncertain and trying to "make sure" You're not totally confident yet — and applying to more programs feels like a way to protect yourself. There's no wrong answer here. But knowing which one you are helps you choose your best number. A helpful framework: Dream, Fit, and Safe One of the best ways to build your graduate school list is to include three categories: Dream Programs These are highly competitive or highly selective. You would LOVE to get in — but you know it's not guaranteed. Fit Programs These are strong matches. Your academic background, experience, and goals align well. Safe Programs These are programs where you have a strong likelihood of admission. You'd still be happy attending — and they reduce anxiety. Now here's the magic: A strong grad application plan includes a mix of all three. That way you avoid the two biggest mistakes applicants make: applying only to the most competitive programsapplying randomly without a strategy So… how many programs should you apply to? Let's break it into realistic options. Option 1: Apply to 1–2 programs This is okay if… You are geographically limited (family, job, caregiver responsibilities)You are applying to a very specific program that only a few schools offerYou are already connected to a faculty member or advisorYou are 100% sure this is the right program for youYou have a backup plan if you don't get in This can work. But I'll be honest — the risk is higher. Because even strong applicants get denied sometimes for reasons that have nothing to do with them. Examples include: limited cohort sizefunding availabilityfaculty capacitytoo many qualified applicants So if you're applying to only one program, I encourage you to ask: "If I don't get in this cycle… what's my plan B?" If you have a good answer, applying to 1–2 programs can absolutely be a ...
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