I’m considering a Bachelor’s degree in Canada after my 12th, but I don’t know how many universities I should realistically apply to. Would applying to too many make a difference, or is it better to shortlist only a few based on my grades and budget?
That’s a really thoughtful question, and it’s great that you’re considering this before starting your applications. When it comes to applying for a Bachelor’s in Canada, the number of universities you should apply to depends on a balance of your academic profile, budget, and career goals.
Usually, we suggest students apply to around 4–6 universities:
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2–3 “safe” options where your grades and English proficiency are comfortably above the admission requirements.
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1–2 “target” options that closely match your profile.
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1 “ambitious” option that might be more competitive but still within reach.
Applying to too many universities can become overwhelming—both in terms of application fees (which in Canada usually range between CAD 75–150 per application) and the time needed to prepare documents. On the other hand, applying to too few might limit your chances if one or two don’t work out.
What’s most important is shortlisting wisely—consider not just rankings but also location, tuition costs, co-op or internship opportunities, and scholarships. Since you mentioned budget and grades, we can work together to identify universities that are both realistic and a good fit for your long-term goals.
