do I even bother applying?

[KieBelle]

I just found a current student list with brief bios for each student on my Top Choice University's website. I read every single one, and every single student has spent significant time studying in the Middle East, usually in more than one country. And all have previous academic experience involving the ME (even if it's just an undergrad minor). I do not have either of those things. I knew that this school was a reach, but now I feel like I shouldn't even bother applying. I'm really (really really) short on cash for application fees so I don't have the luxury of applying to schools just for the heck of it. Even if I am admitted, the chances of receiving funding with that kind of competition is near zero. I'm thinking that it might be a better idea to spend the money on a school more likely to admit me, even if that school isn't as highly ranked as Top Choice. What do you think?

[NervousNellie]

I think that is wise. Hard to swallow, I imagine, but sounds like you are being level-headed and smart.

[psycholinguist]

Why not email a few grad-students or professors there and ask whether they are only interested in people who have studied abroad?

[socialcomm]

I agree -- do a bit more research into the program before you make your final decision. That way there's less of an opportunity for feeling like you're second guessing your decision.