How To Make A College List: Finding The Right Schools

If you’re starting to think about college, you’ve probably heard this advice a few times: “Start making a college list.” But what does that actually mean? And how do you even begin?

When I first sat down to figure out how to make a college list, I was overwhelmed. There were so many colleges and universities to consider, so many terms I didn’t understand, and way too many opinions. But over time, I learned that creating a college list doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need to know what to look for and how to stay organized.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to make a college list based on what I’ve learned from experience and from trusted sources like BigFuture, CollegeVine, IvyWise, and others. Let’s walk through it together.

Step 1: Start With What You Want

Before you dive into stats and rankings, take a moment to think about your preferences. Ask yourself:

• Do I want a large university or a small liberal arts college?
• Would I prefer a city campus or something more rural?
• Do I want to stay in-state or explore other parts of the United States?
• What do I want to study—or do I want the flexibility to explore?

This step is all about your personal fit. If you’re not sure yet, that’s okay. Think about your interests in and outside of school. Would you want to participate in clubs or sports? What kind of environment helps you thrive?

This early reflection will help you figure out what kinds of colleges you should apply to and what kind of college experience would make you happy.

Step 2: Use Tools to Start Your Search

Once you’ve got a rough idea of what you’re looking for, it’s time to start researching. Sites like BigFuture by the College Board and CollegeVine are great places to begin. You can filter schools by size, major, location, and other factors to find colleges that fit your goals.

As you explore, start building a spreadsheet to keep track of everything. Include:

• School name
• Location
• Acceptance rate
• Programs offered
• Campus size
• Net price or cost estimates
• Notes (e.g., “offers need-blind admission” or “strong liberal arts education”)

This simple tool will make it much easier to compare options later on.

Step 3: Factor in Cost Early

College is a big financial decision, so it’s smart to think about the cost upfront. Start by checking each college’s net price calculator—it gives you an estimate of what you might actually pay after financial aid, which is usually less than the sticker price (also known as the list price).

Understanding the financial implications of your choices is crucial; this resource on how to write a scholarship essay can provide valuable insights into securing financial aid.

Here are some terms to keep in mind:

• Sticker price: The full cost before any aid.
• Net price: What you’ll likely pay after financial aid and scholarships.
• Student financial aid in the United States includes need-based aid (based on your family’s finances) and merit-based aid (based on your grades or activities).
• The FAFSA and CSS Profile are key tools to apply for aid.
• Some colleges offer generous aid or are known for meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need.
• Private universities may have higher list prices, but often provide more aid compared to public schools.

Use a calculator or spreadsheet to estimate tuition payments and narrow down schools that fit your budget. If you qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program, you may have more affordable options than you think.

Step 4: Build a Balanced College List

One of the most important tips for making your list is balance. You’ll want a good mix of schools based on how likely you are to get in:

• Safety schools – You’re very likely to be accepted based on your GPA and test scores.
• Match schools – Your profile is similar to that of the average accepted student.
• Reach schools – These are more selective, and admission isn’t guaranteed.

Experts suggest applying to about 8–12 schools total. You don’t need to include every college you’ve ever heard of—just the ones that fit you well. And every school on your list should be one you’d actually be happy to attend.

Step 5: Think About Fit, Not Just Reputation

It’s easy to get caught up in names and rankings, but the right college for someone else might not be the right one for you. Instead of focusing only on reputation, think about how each school fits your life and learning style.

Ask questions like:

• What’s the social atmosphere like?
• How are the professors and academic support?
• How is grading in education handled at the school?
• What kinds of extracurriculars or clubs are available?
• Are students happy with their overall experience?

If possible, go on college tours or schedule virtual info sessions. You can also read reviews, watch YouTube videos from current students, or check Reddit threads from prospective colleges and accepted students. That kind of insight is often more helpful than polished marketing.

Step 6: Keep Your List Organized and Flexible

Use your spreadsheet or a simple checklist to keep track of deadlines, financial aid requirements, and whether schools need college essays or recommendation letters. As you move through junior year and into senior year, things may shift—and that’s totally fine.

You might improve your test scores or realize a school you loved just doesn’t fit anymore. You may even add or remove schools based on updated research or new interests. That’s all part of the process.

The key is to start making a college list early enough that you have time to adjust. Give yourself the freedom to refine your list without rushing.

Step 7: Visit College Campuses (Virtually or In Person)

Once you’ve narrowed things down, it’s time to visit college campuses—or at least check them out online.

In-person visits let you get a real feel for the environment. You can see where you’d live, eat, study, and hang out. But if travel isn’t possible, most schools offer virtual tours and info sessions that give you a strong sense of the vibe.

During your college visits, pay attention to:

• How students interact
• The layout and energy of the campus
• Opportunities you might want to participate in
• How you feel while you’re there

These visits can help you make decisions about the colleges on your list. Sometimes, a campus just “clicks.” Other times, you realize a school you thought you loved isn’t a great fit, and that’s incredibly helpful before you apply.

Reflecting on your campus visits can also inform your application strategy; consider reading this piece on how to write a personal statement to effectively convey your experiences.

Factors to Consider When Making a College List

Here’s a quick look at the key factors to consider when making your list of schools:

• Location: Would you prefer to stay close to home, or are you open to traveling across the U.S?
• Size: Some people like large campuses with tons of programs; others thrive in smaller, more personal settings.
• Majors: Does the school offer what you want to study?
• Cost: What’s the total cost, and how much aid are you likely to receive?
• Campus life: What kind of clubs, housing, and activities are available?
• Admissions process: How competitive is the school, and how does your academic profile compare to the statistics?
• Reputation: What do current or former students say in posts you may find online or on forums like Reddit?
• Support services: Does the school provide good academic advising, career help, orcollege counseling?

All of these will help you decide which schools to apply to and which ones might be a good fit. It’s worth taking the time to thoroughly research each option, especially if you’re starting early in secondary school or junior year.

Final Tips Before You Apply

As you’re starting to build your list, talk to a college counselor, teacher, or family member who can help you think through your options. Look beyond how many colleges you can apply to, and focus on the quality of your list. The list should include schools that:

• Fit your academic interests..
• Are financially realistic
• Match your personality and goals
• Offer the bachelor’s degree programs you’re looking for
• Make you feel like you would be happy to attend

You don’t need to impress anyone with the number of schools on your list. What matters most is that you’re confident in your choices and excited about where they could lead.

Final Thoughts on How To Make A College List

Making a college list is really about knowing yourself and staying organized. Use tools like BigFuture, net price calculators, and spreadsheets to help you compare options. Focus on fit, not just name recognition, and build a balanced list with a mix of schools where you’d genuinely want to go. Don’t worry about finding the “perfect” college—just focus on finding places where you’ll grow, learn, and enjoy your college experience. You’ve got this.