“Safe, Likely, Stretch” College and University Applications
"Safe, Likely, Stretch" College and University Applications Heading link
Most students apply to multiple universities or colleges, not just to the one they want to get into. American students are often told to apply to three or more schools, called their “safe” school, “likely school” and “stretch” school. (Sometimes also called “safety, target, reach” or “safety, target, dream.”) What does this mean and how can you use this to help with your application process?
First, apply to a “safe school.” This is a university that you are sure you will get accepted to because you have a better GPA and test scores than the school requires or expects.
Next, apply to at least one “likely school.” This is a university that will probably accept you because your GPA and other scores match the requirements.
Finally, apply to at least one “stretch school.” This is a university that you would like to go to but which may not accept you.