Application forms: listing other schools you're applying to

[bordercrossings]

I've started filling out online applications to several schools, and a few of them ask for a list of other schools I'm applying to. Is this a trick question, i.e. they want to hear "No other schools! Only you, because you're the BEST."

Or is it a good thing to tell them where you're applying, so they can see what level you're aiming at?

Or is it purely for statistical purposes, so they can see which schools are their perceived rivals?

Thanks for your input!

[TheStranger]

Less is more.

[jldstudio]

I've been assuming its more statistical, gathering more info to help them see what their applicant pool is going for perhaps. Maybe help them with recruiting and advertising. So far I've skipped filling it out though.

[nimda]

Maybe it is to be competitive with aid packages in the future.

It is sometimes telling and interesting to see what programs people list on this forum in a group that they are applying to. Sometimes the list is generic and all about the usnews reputation of the program, sometimes people have specific qualities that they would look for in a program.