That’s a tall order. So how should you tackle identifying your safety schools? Well, you should pick your safety schools keeping in mind the same criteria as you used when picking your reach and match schools. If something is important to you, don’t give up on it.

Try looking at schools that offer all the things you want, but have slightly lower SAT scores or average GPAs. Once you have a school in mind, be honest with yourself. Ask yourself, “Would I be happy here?” If the answer is “only if it’s the only option” go back to the drawing board.

Check out your local state school. Some state schools, and certain programs at other state schools, are highly competitive, but many excellent state schools offer admission to the majority of in-state residents who meet certain basic academic requirements. If the flagship state school for your state is considered selective, check out a satellite campus.

Another thing to consider is the concept of a financial safety. Finding a school that you can afford is as important as finding one you can get into. Often, an academic safety school can be more affordable because you’ll be so sought after by the admissions office that your financial aid package will be a bit more generous.

So research schools from every angle. Take a look at the average financial aid packages offered to freshmen (and upperclassmen—you’ll be there for four years, remember!) and take them into consideration when assessing the financial burden you’ll be expected to pay. Don’t forget to calculate your EFC.

And lastly, keep in mind that, with a great record at the end of your freshman year, you can always transfer. Any many unhappy freshmen, at every kind of college, acutally return as very content sophomores.