How to Create A College List

Building your college list is one of the most important—and most personal—parts of the application process. The right list should reflect your goals, values, and the kind of environment where you’ll thrive.

This guide from the Onward Scholars Program walks you through the tools and tips that make it easier to build a well-rounded, best-fit college list tailored to your unique strengths and interests.

Finding the right fit

A well-balanced college list includes schools that fit you—not just your GPA. That means thinking beyond academics and asking yourself:

  • Do I want a big school or a small one?

  • What kind of campus culture do I want?

  • How far from home am I willing to go?

  • Do I qualify for need-based or merit aid?

  • What academic programs or support services matter most to me?

Your final list should include:

Likely schools where your stats are above the average admitted profile

Match schools where you're solidly in range

Reach schools that may be more competitive—but still worth aiming for

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What to Look For

There’s more to a college than its ranking. When researching schools, consider what really matters to you:

  • Majors and academic strengths

  • Student support services (especially for first-gen students)

  • Graduation and retention rates

  • Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

  • Campus life, clubs, and communities

  • Study abroad, internships, and research opportunities

Start early. Begin researching in 11th grade or sooner so you have time to compare and reflect.

Key tips for building a balanced list*

Mix it up. Include safety, match, and reach schools.

Go beyond rankings. Focus on what actually affects your experience: class size, culture, cost, and support.

Use your tracker. Keep your list organized and revisit it as you learn more.

*Tip: This isn’t a one-and-done process. Your list should evolve as you explore what fits.

Track Your College List All in One Place

College list-building can get messy fast—different deadlines, essays, platforms, and fees. That’s why the Onward Scholars Program created this College Organizer Spreadsheet.

Use this tracker to:

  • List the schools you're considering

  • Keep deadlines, fees, and platforms in one place

  • Track each school’s major offerings and essay requirements

  • Add notes and links as you go

Whether you're applying to five schools or fifteen, this tool keeps everything in one clear, flexible place.

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Considering Nursing, Pre-Med, or Engineering?

Some majors—especially in STEM and healthcare—have unique admissions requirements. If you're planning to study Engineering, Computer Science, Nursing, or Pre-Med, you'll need to pay close attention to how those programs work at different schools.

The Onward Scholars Program created two specialized guides to help you navigate these pathways.

Download our Guides*!

Engineering & Computer Science Planning Guide
Learn which schools offer direct-entry engineering programs, what high school courses to prioritize, and how to assess your

Nursing and Medical Pathways Guide
Get a clear breakdown of nursing and pre-med tracks, what “pre-health” actually means, and how to compare program structures across schools.

*Tip! These majors often require earlier planning—use these guides to get ahead.

Next Up: College Essays

Once you’ve built your college list, it’s time to tackle your essays. Get step-by-step guidance for UC PIQs, Common App personal statements, and supplements.