It’s that time of the year when you’ll be receiving admits for next Fall.

Once you receive your admits, it’s time to begin the shortlisting process. The process where you will decide which university is best for you - the one that fits your personality and goals.

As I have talked with thousands of international students over the years, I have heard many MYTHS about the process of shortlisting admits. I know that it can be overwhelming to navigate this process and difficult to make a decision.

If you want to make the best decision about selecting a college that is the best fit for you, it's important to understand the TRUTH about shortlisting.

Here are four common myths about shortlisting admits so that you can better understand what school is best for you.

Myth #1: IT’S ALL ABOUT LOCATION

One of the biggest myths about shortlisting admits is that location is the most important factor to consider. Many think that it’s a good idea to choose a college in a popular area like the Bay Area, New York, or Dallas because once you graduate, you have a higher likelihood of getting a job there.

This is not how Americans think. In reality, you probably won’t get a job in the area of your school. Don't limit your options by focusing on location.

It’s a better idea to choose a school based on the area that you know you’d enjoy - perhaps the scenery, the unique culture, or the vibe. Just because you study in a certain area, doesn’t mean that is where you will get your job.

With the right skills and experience, you can get a job anywhere in America. So, location is not as a big of a factor as you think.

Myth #2: HIGHER COLLEGE RANKING = A BETTER JOB

Another big misconception that I see everywhere is that a higher-ranked college or university will automatically lead to a better job after graduation. While it's true that attending a top-tier school like Harvard or Yale can open unique doors. It’s also true that the top 150 colleges in America are excellent and can provide quality job opportunities.

What matters most is the ranking of your degree program, the quality of the professors, and what the graduates have been able to accomplish. Employers are more interested in your skills, experience, and academic achievements than in the name of your college or university. You should choose based on the strength of the program that you're interested in studying, rather than simply the school's ranking.

In most cases, a higher ranking means a higher bill. You’re paying more for the school's brand name rather than the quality of the education you receive. That’s an expensive bill to pay to impress your aunts and uncles back home.

Myth #3: IT’S TOO EXPENSIVE

While college tuition costs can be high, you need to consider all factors that impact your budget, including scholarships and the cost of living.

When shortlisting admits, look not only at the tuition costs but also consider the scholarship opportunities available. Many schools offer generous scholarship programs that can significantly reduce tuition.

Also, the cost of living can vary significantly between different schools and cities. While a school in a major city may have a higher cost of living, it may also offer more on-campus job opportunities. Consider ALL the factors that impact your budget when making your selection.

Myth #4: I WANT TO GO THERE BECAUSE I KNOW SOMEONE WHO WENT THERE.

It's common for students to feel pressure to attend a certain college because they have friends or family members who have attended in the past. While this may seem like the most comfortable option, this decision should be based on what's best for you, not what others expect.

Choosing a college based on the experiences of others can also cause you to lose your own sense of individuality and personality. You are unique and have your own interests and goals. Find a college that aligns with YOUR values and aspirations.

Don't be swayed by trends or peer pressure. Always remember to prioritize your own goals when selecting a college.

Take control of your journey by setting clear goals and being mindful of the myths that can lead you astray.

To learn more about shortlisting, check out these videos on the Chai and Coaching channel.

• Is University Ranking Or Location More Important When Shortlisting College Admits?
• 7 Tips For Shortlisting University Admissions MS In USA

Which schools have you received admits to?