How should I decide where to apply?

Where you will study will largely determine where you will live, and so it is an important decision that should incorporate both academic and non-academic considerations. In terms of academics, your list of schools can be based on a number of factors such as the availability of courses of interest, presence of professors with whom you would like to work, research opportunities, job placement rates, and extracurricular opportunities such as study abroad programs.

It is also important to be realistic and apply to schools where you have a good chance of getting accepted, even if you also apply to more selective institutions. Aside from academics, you should also consider factors of personal importance such as financial aid, accommodation, safety, and job opportunities.