How Many Schools Should I Apply To?

This really depends on the student.  If you are applying to very competitive college or university, you will probably apply to several.  Since every application costs about $35-$75 dollars, you will probably want to limit your options as much as possible.  If the application fees are too expensive for you, many schools will waive that fee based on financial need.  Choose one or two reach schools, that you think you probably would have a hard time being admitted to.  Check stats with books like Princeton review or US News.  Apply to 1-2 schools that you think you have a decent chance of getting into, and would also like to attend.  Apply to at least 1 safety school, which you know you will be admitted to.  This can be an open admissions school, or a local community college.  The last thing you want is to not get into college at all.   

Many high school counselors will tell you which schools they consider to be a reach colleges based on your transcript, class rank, and SAT scores.  High school counselors might also set a cap on the number of schools you can apply to, because it creates a mountain of work for them as well.  Usually this is around 10 colleges. 

Online Degrees For Undergraduates:

Filling out college applications is a full time job, so do yourself a favor, and don't apply to schools that you know are impossible for you.  Each application will probably take about 2-5hrs to fill out, depending on how many essays are required. 

Applying to less selective schools often means larger scholarship offers.  If you have excellent grades, don't just apply to the top tier colleges.  Less selective colleges may offer you a full scholarship.  Graduating with zero debt is a gigantic feat, strive for it