How Many "Targets" Are Necessary?

[sara3426]

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Counting through my list of 21 schools, I have 4 schools that could be thought of as safeties/backups/targets/whatever the PC term is. Make that 3-4. Many of the others are numbers-matched to me but are state schools for other states.
How many real backup/safeties are standard in everyone's AMCAS applications? I mean schools at which you should be getting in, barring some huge issue, like your state schools if your grades are right, etc, etc.
I tried to make a poll but couldn't figure out where to do that. rarrr.

 

[SoCuteMD]

There is no such thing as a "safety/backup/target" medical school. Unless you have an absolutely stellar app, plan accordingly.

 

[sanche60]

Counting through my list of 21 schools, I have 4 schools that could be thought of as safeties/backups/targets/whatever the PC term is. Make that 3-4. Many of the others are numbers-matched to me but are state schools for other states.
How many real backup/safeties are standard in everyone's AMCAS applications? I mean schools at which you should be getting in, barring some huge issue, like your state schools if your grades are right, etc, etc.
I tried to make a poll but couldn't figure out where to do that. rarrr.

As long as the majority (maybe 75%?) are reasonable, given your stats, you should be fine. But if you apply to all reach schools and only a few "safeties" you might be in for a rude awakening. Just be reasonable, with some reach schools, and you'll be fine. Try 25% below your numbers, 50% at your numbers, and 25% a little above your numbers.