How to Choose the Best Safety Schools

When applying to colleges, it’s tempting to focus solely on dream schools and top-tier universities. However, this approach can lead to stress and uncertainty if things don’t go as planned. That’s where safety schools come in. They ensure you have strong options regardless of how competitive your application cycle might be.

But what exactly qualifies as a safety school, and how should you choose one? Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know.

• What Is a Safety School?
• How to Choose Your Safety Schools
• Top 10 Safety Schools You Should Consider
• What to Look for in a Safety School
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is a Safety School?

A safety school is a college where you’re very likely to be admitted based on your academic profile, like your SAT score and GPA. If your grades and test scores are above the middle 50% of admitted students and the school doesn’t have an extremely low acceptance rate, your chances are strong.

Meaning, it’s not just about a school’s overall acceptance rate but also about how your grades, test scores, and achievements compare to those of admitted students. A school with a 45% admit rate isn’t offering every applicant a 45% shot. For instance, some colleges may admit Early Decision applicants at much higher rates than those who apply Regular Decision.

In the end, your individual profile often matters more than the school’s overall numbers. According to a 2023 survey by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, schools also consider factors like:

• High school grades in college prep courses
• Strength of high school curriculum
• Positive character attributes
• Essay or writing sample
• Student’s interest in attending

So, when identifying your safety schools, think beyond just the numbers and consider the bigger picture of what makes you a strong applicant.

Why safety schools matter

Contrary to popular belief, safety schools are not always less prestigious or lower in quality. Including good safety schools in your college plan is a smart move that can set you up for success. 

According to a Times Higher Education think piece, it’s time for students to forget the term “safety schools” and embrace the possibilities of “opportunity schools.”

The article mentions a case where a student with a stellar 43 in the IBDP and an impressive extracurricular profile. She was accepted to top schools like NYU, Duke, and Michigan. Yet, she chose the University of Minnesota—a school many considered a “safety.” Why? She saw the potential to thrive as a big fish in a smaller pond.

At Minnesota, she excelled, earning top grades, conducting research, landing internships, and leading campus communities. Her decision paid off when she was accepted into Harvard’s graduate program after just a year in the workforce.

Her story is a powerful reminder that “opportunity schools” can be the perfect launchpad for success when approached with the right mindset.

What can we take away from this? Here are some key reasons why safety schools are essential:

• Reduced stress. Knowing you have solid options where acceptance is likely takes the pressure off applying to competitive schools, making the process less overwhelming.
• Financial security. Good safety schools offer generous scholarships and financial aid, making quality education more affordable and reducing future debt.
• Opportunities to shine. Smaller or less-selective schools often make it easier to take on leadership roles, internships, and research opportunities, helping you stand out.
• Future flexibility. Safety schools can be a springboard for bigger goals, whether it’s transferring, pursuing grad school, or starting a career.

How to Choose Your Safety Schools

When choosing safety schools, make sure to check your suitability to its admission rates and your academic profile. A safety school typically has an acceptance rate of 50% or higher, and your credentials—like GPA and test scores—should exceed the average admitted student’s profile.

For instance, if your SAT score matches the 2023 national average of 1028, look for schools where this score is above their middle 50% range to identify safety options. Similarly, if your GPA is 3.8, target colleges where this places you well above their typical admitted student range to ensure they’re a safer bet for admission.

What are the three types of schools for admission?

When building your college list, schools are typically grouped into three categories—safety, match, and reach—based on your likelihood of admission.

• Reach schools. These are colleges where your academic credentials (GPA, test scores, etc.) fall below the average range of admitted students. Admission is less likely but still possible. It would be a reach if your SAT score falls below the 25th percentile.
• Match schools. These are schools where your academic profile aligns closely with the average admitted student. Admission is reasonably likely. Your middle 50% SAT range would be a match if your SAT score fits comfortably within this range.
• Safety schools. These are schools where your academic credentials exceed the average admitted student’s profile, making admission very likely. Your middle 50% SAT range would be a safety school if your SAT score sits above the 25th percentile.

Now, let’s say your SAT score is 1028. These are your benchmarks for identifying school types:

This table shows how a 1028 SAT score could make the University of Arizona a reach, the University of North Florida a match, and Cal State Fullerton a safety. By matching your academic stats to a school’s typical admitted student range, you can build a balanced college list that increases your chances of success.

Keep in mind, acceptance rates don’t tell the whole story. For test-optional schools, factors like grades, essays, extracurriculars, and demonstrated interest may carry more weight in admissions decisions.

Trends in admission rates

In recent years, schools like New York University (NYU) have seen a dramatic increase in applications. For instance, NYU received over 120,000 applications for the Class of 2029, resulting in a record-low acceptance rate of just 7.7%.

Similarly, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) saw a surge in applicants, with over 146,000 applications for the Class of 2028, leading to an acceptance rate of around 9%.

Despite these trends, many schools remain accessible. For example, institutions like the University of Alabama (76%) and Arizona State University (90%) continue to maintain higher acceptance rates while offering strong academic programs, making them excellent safety school options for students with solid academic records.

These schools provide a balance of accessibility and quality, ensuring students have viable options on their college lists.

Top 10 Safety Schools You Should Consider

When choosing the best safety schools, it’s important to balance acceptance rates with academic quality and program offerings. In the end, the right choice depends on your own academic record and qualifications, but these are generally strong options. Here’s a look at 10 schools with solid reputations and high acceptance rates:

Each of these safety schools offers strong academic programs, active campus communities, and excellent resources for students.

How many safety schools should I apply to?

When building your college list, balance is key. According to the College Board, there’s no magic number, but 5 to 8 applications are typically enough to ensure acceptance into a suitable institution. This list should include a mix of 1-2 safety schools, 2-4 match schools, and 1-2 reach schools, depending on your academic record and personal goals.

Key tip: Make sure every school on your list, including safeties, is one you’d genuinely be happy to attend. There’s no point in applying to a school where you can’t see yourself thriving.

What to Look for in a Safety School

Picking the best safety school is about finding a place where you’ll feel happy, supported, and set up for success. A good safety school should check all the right boxes for your academic, personal, and financial needs. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Academic programs and reputation

Take a closer look at the specific programs or departments you’re interested in. Do they have great professors, research opportunities, or connections to industries you want to work in? Also, check out what alumni are up to. Are they landing good jobs or getting into top grad schools? A safety school with a strong academic foundation can open doors for your future.

Even though it’s a safety school, it should still offer strong programs in your area of interest. Make sure the school is accredited and has a solid reputation for academic excellence.

2. Location and campus environment

Think about whether you’d prefer a bustling city, a quiet suburban area, or a peaceful rural setting. Also, consider how far it is from home, what the weather’s like, and how easy it is to get around.

If you can, visit the campus or take a virtual tour to get a feel for the vibe. You want to pick a place where you can see yourself thriving and feeling comfortable for the next few years. Where the safety school is located can make a big difference in your college experience.

3. Cost and financial aid

Let’s talk about money—because it matters! Take the time to research tuition, housing, and other costs. Look into what kinds of financial aid packages they offer, and don’t forget to use the school’s net price calculator to get an idea of what you’d actually pay after aid.

Safety schools are often more affordable and may offer generous scholarships or merit-based aid. Choosing a school that fits your budget means you can focus on your education without stressing about debt.

4. Support services

Look for safety schools that offer tutoring, writing centers, and other academic resources to help you succeed in your classes. Career services are also a big deal. Check if they provide internships, job placement help, or networking opportunities. And don’t overlook mental health and wellness services.

A good safety school should have your back when it comes to support. College can be challenging, so having access to counseling or wellness programs can make a huge difference.

5. Campus life

Check out the clubs, organizations, and activities the safety school offers. Are there opportunities to explore your hobbies or try something new? Look into campus traditions and events to see if they match your vibe.

College is also about having fun and making memories. A lively, inclusive campus community can make your college years some of the best of your life.

Frequently Asked Question

1. What does a safety school mean?

A safety school is a college where you’re very likely to be admitted because your academic profile (like GPA and SAT scores) exceeds the average admitted student’s. It’s not just about numbers, though. Essays, extracurriculars, and interest also matter.

2. How many safety schools should I include on my college list?

A balanced college list should include 1-2 safety schools, 2-4 match schools, and 1-2 reach schools, totaling 5-8 applications. This keeps your options open without overwhelming you.

3. What makes a good safety school?

A good safety school is one you’d be happy to attend. It should have strong academics, affordable tuition, good financial aid, and a supportive campus environment.

4. Are safety schools less prestigious?

Not at all! Many safety schools offer excellent programs and opportunities. They can be a great place to thrive, take on leadership roles, and prepare for future success.

5. How do I pick the best safety schools?

Choose schools where your academic profile is above average and that align with your goals. Consider location, cost, campus life, and support services to ensure it’s a good fit.

Takeaways

• Knowing you have safety schools—secure options where acceptance is likely—eases the pressure of applying to competitive colleges.
• Many good safety schools offer generous scholarships and financial aid, making college more affordable.
• Safety schools often give students the chance to shine through leadership roles, internships, and research opportunities.
• The best safety schools provide excellent education and can be a strong foundation for future success in grad school or your career.
• A college admissions consultant can guide you through the process of finding the best safety schools for your goals. With the right fit, these schools can set you up for success. Start exploring your options today!