34. How to Determine Where to Apply, with Linda Abraham Artwork

The Dominate Test Prep Podcast

This show is designed to take the guesswork out of preparing for your standardized test and equip you with practical how-to's for getting more right answers on test day, successfully navigating the admissions process, getting accepted to your dream school, and succeeding in the classroom. Our episodes deliver expert advice from the industry's top test prep instructors and admissions consultants as we endeavor to prepare you for success not only on test day, but also in your future profession and life beyond. Oh, and did we mention that we have a lot of fun? You will too, as we embark on this important next chapter of your education together. Thanks for listening!

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The Dominate Test Prep Podcast

34. How to Determine Where to Apply, with Linda Abraham

November 10, 2020 • Brett Ethridge / Dominate Test Prep

One of the first and most important decisions you need to make on your higher education journey is determining which schools and programs to apply to. Once you figure that out, much of the rest of the application process starts to fall into place. Yet, deciding where to apply isn't always straightforward. There are a lot of factors to consider. To help shed light on this important topic, we are joined in this episode by Linda Abraham, founder of Accepted, who shares anecdotes, insight, and key considerations including:

The importance of determining your "North Star" as the driver of your decision about which programs to apply to -- and how to figure it out if you're unsure
Why getting clear about your career goals is such an important first step, including its relevance to writing your Statement of Purpose on your applications
Three good reasons for selecting target schools
Several bad reasons for applying to a specific school or program
The role that rankings should play in where you choose to apply (if at all)
Where money (scholarships, tuition costs) should factor in to your decision
How many schools you should apply to -- and whether or not your should have a "safe school" on your list
Considerations for undergraduate applicants, and how they differ in some respects from the factors that are most important for grad school candidates
What you can do to boost your profile if your stats (test scores, GPA, etc.) aren't currently in alignment with your dream school
And more!

If you're just starting the admissions process, what Linda has to share will help ensure that you're going back to school for the right reasons and that you pick a school that you will enjoy while you're there and that will serve your long-term goals well. And if you're already knee-deep in the process but not 100% confident in your list of target schools, you'll benefit from Linda's perspective as well. Enjoy!

RESOURCES

Linda has put together a special free guide just for the listeners of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast to help you find the business school that's the perfect fit for you. Download it here:

Free Guide: Best MBA Programs — A Guide to Selecting the Right One

And if you need to boost your test score to improve your chances of getting accepted to your top-choice school, check out our top-rated prep courses for the GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment, LSAT, and SAT.

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