How many grad schools to apply to?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the optimal number of graduate schools to apply to, with a consensus suggesting that applying to around eight schools is ideal. This number balances the potential costs, which can reach approximately $400 in application fees, against the likelihood of acceptance. The advice emphasizes the importance of applying only to schools that genuinely interest the applicant, particularly for a physics major with a strong academic record and research experience.

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EventHorizon4
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I'm sure this is a question that comes up a lot but I can't find an old thread on it, and I've seen a lot of varying advice all over.

How many grad schools should I apply to?

Personally, I'm an junior (will be a senior in the fall) physics major with a 3.9 overall and about a 3.8 in math and physics courses at a major public research university, and I have one semester and counting experience as a research assistant. Will be taking the GREs this summer.

So is there a general number of grad schools people usually apply to or does it completely depend on your personal situation?
 
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Depends on a lot of things. It can be very expensive applying to a lot of grad schools. For instance, I think eight apps is about ideal, but that could easily be $400 in application fees alone. So don't apply anywhere that you don't really want to go.
 

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