How to Build a University Shortlist That Actually Makes Sense

Building a university shortlist is a critical step in the application journey. Narrowing your options down to a realistic and balanced set of choices requires thoughtful research and strategic planning, especially given the thousands of institutions to choose from.

This guide outlines how to approach the process in a way that is both efficient and aligned with your academic goals and personal circumstances.

1. Begin with Budget Considerations

Before reviewing rankings or course options, start by considering your budget. This includes both tuition fees and cost of living in your potential study destinations. For example, while Dutch public universities typically offer low tuition for EU students, cities such as Amsterdam or Utrecht may have relatively high living costs. Destinations such as Spain, on the other hand, may offer more affordable accommodation or access to private scholarships.

If your family is supporting your studies financially, take the time to discuss their expectations and parameters. Having a clear understanding of available resources will help focus your research.

2. Use Rankings Strategically

Rankings such as the QS World University Rankings are definitely a useful reference point, especially when researching institutions with strong subject-specific reputations. That said, it is important not to rely solely on rankings or treat them as absolute indicators of quality.

If you are still unsure about your subject of interest, or if you know the field but are seeking guidance on the best-fit universities, consider exploring our Orientation service. It is designed to help students define their academic direction and identify relevant institutions across the globe.

3. Align with Entry Requirements

The next step after defining some target destinations and potential universities is to review the academic entry requirements for each course. Focus on universities where your current or predicted grades already meet the criteria, unless the institution explicitly states that they take a holistic or flexible approach.

A common mistake students make is applying to too many highly competitive programmes while overlooking solid, achievable options. A realistic shortlist should reflect your current academic standing and goals.

4. Maintain a Balanced Strategy

In most cases, students benefit from applying to 4 to 6 universities. The shortlist should include:

• 1-2 safety options, where you are confident you exceed the entry requirements

• 2-3 target options, where your profile is a strong match

• No more than 1-2 ambitious choices, where entry may be more competitive

Avoid applying to too many highly selective universities, as this increases the risk of not receiving an offer and can create unnecessary stress and workload for you.

Final Thoughts

A well-constructed shortlist will reflect your academic profile, personal goals, and logistical considerations such as finances and study location. The aim is to create a manageable list of institutions that provide both opportunity and security.

If you would like support at any stage of this process, from defining your subject of interest to comparing individual courses, the Orientation service is designed to offer structured and tailored guidance.