For me there was only one school I even considered going to due to financial and personal reasons. I felt that focusing on one application really allowed me to be the best candidate possible for that program. And I was accepted!
I think it really depends on your situation whether or not you should apply to a bunch. I'm bilingual too and only applied to one school---the one down the street from my house. I've been accepted so it is totally possible!! I have heard that bilingual candidates sometimes have an edge on others because we're pretty uncommon in the field
I think it is probably close to true that they only accept on or two out of state per cohort. Louisiana schools tend to focus on taking care of their own
I received an email last week from LSUHSC requesting clarification on my undergrad coursework. They mentioned that they were beginning to schedule interviews.