Before the American Revolution (1776), seven out of the eight colleges that constitute the Ivy League were established, making them the oldest universities in the United States.
These universities have consistently held high rankings nationally and globally, making them desirable choices for students seeking to study abroad. Now, let’s delve into a detailed discussion of Ivy League Universities.
Here is a list of Ivy League colleges:
- Brown University
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- Dartmouth College
- Harvard University
- The University of Pennsylvania
- Princeton University
- Yale University
For an Indian student, getting accepted into one of the Ivy League Universities is nothing short of their version of the American Dream.
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What is the Ivy League?
The cluster of Ivy League Universities USA was formed in 1954, it was an inter-college athletic group of eight colleges of the Northeastern United States of America aimed at promoting sporting and athletic ties between the participating colleges.
The Ivy League is a bunch of eight prestigious colleges and universities in the US, known for their academic excellence, prosperous history, and particular admissions process with a legacy that spans centuries.
The participating universities engage in friendly competition across a range of student athletic events.
If you look at the Ivy League website, it has a plethora of sports news but offers limited insights into the academic aspects of college and Ivy League University life.
Even though the Ivy League officially started in 1954, people already used the term in the 1930s. It comes from a tradition of planting ivy at many old universities in the nineteenth century.
Sportswriters used “Ivy League” to talk about the friendly competition between these colleges. This term makes it an exclusive group, including only those eight Ivy League universities in the USA with a shared history and location.
What are the Ivy League Universities?
Thanks to Sports, the participating Ivy League universities in the USA got themselves an exclusive group.
These Ivy League universities are old, reputed and highly regarded. Although they are all members of the Association of American Universities, representing the best universities in America, Ivy League universities are often considered the best America has.
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Ivy League Universities Ranking
Below are the eight Ivy League Universities and their QS World University Ranking for 2024 and the acceptance rate:
| Colleges | Admit / Total Applied | Acceptance Rate (%) |
| #4 Harvard University | 1,980 / 40,284 | 4.92 |
| #12 University of Pennsylvania | 3,404 / 42,205 | 8.07 |
| #13 Cornell University | NA | NA |
| #16 Yale University | 2,304 / 3 | 6.54 |
| #17 Princeton University | 1,823 / 32,863 | 5.55 |
| #23 Columbia University | 2465 / 40,084 | 6.15 |
| #73 Brown University | 2,533 / 36794 | 6.88 |
| #237 Dartmouth University | 1,881 / 21,394 | 8.79 |
Did you notice the low acceptance rate of these prestigious colleges?
Well, the numbers show how challenging it is to gain admission to these universities. So, proper planning and high academic scores are the best facets to enter these colleges.
Ivy League Universities: Explained
Welcome to the world of Ivy League universities – where excellence meets education in a league of its own.
In this section, we’ll have a look into the details of these prestigious institutions that make up the Ivy League universities in the USA that are beyond their storied histories and reputations.
1. Harvard University
Harvard consistently secures the top positions among US and international educational institutions. Boasting an impressive endowment of approximately $50 billion, Harvard stands as the world’s wealthiest university.
This financial strength facilitates a world-class faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and the provision of free tuition for students from modest-income families. Nestled in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard’s academic prowess is synonymous with its global reputation.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | The most sought-after majors at Harvard encompass Biology, Economics, English, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Social Sciences, solidifying its commitment to a diverse and comprehensive educational experience. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 47 Lacs ($57,246) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
2. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania, known as U Penn, excels in fields such as medicine, dentistry, design, business, law, communications, nursing, veterinary science, social sciences, and humanities.
Consistently ranking among the top research universities globally, Penn’s urban campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, teems with diversity, hosting nearly 25,000 students.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | Courses at U Penn encompass a wide array of disciplines, emphasising its strengths in medicine, design, business, law, and various research capabilities. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 48 Lacs ($58,620) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
3. Cornell University
Unique among Ivy League institutions, Cornell’s agricultural program is integrated into the state school system. Positioned in the scenic Finger Lakes region of central New York in Ithaca, Cornell is renowned for its schools of engineering and hotel management.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | Cornell’s diverse majors include Agricultural Business, Animal Science, Biology, Economics, Hotel Management, Human Development, Industrial and Labor Relations, Mechanical Engineering, and Political Science, showcasing its commitment to a broad academic spectrum. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting 54 Lacs ($65,204) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
4. Yale University
Yale stands out in the Ivy League with an endowment exceeding $40 billion and a remarkable 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Situated in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale boasts a vast library holding over 12.7 million volumes and fields 35 varsity athletic teams.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | Yale’s academic components include Yale College (undergraduate), the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and professional schools, forming the foundation of its diverse and comprehensive educational offerings. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 54 Lacs ($64,700) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
5. Princeton University
Nestled in Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University offers undergraduate and graduate courses in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. Distinguished by its absence of schools in medicine, law, divinity, education, and business, Princeton focuses on academic excellence.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | Noteworthy majors at Princeton encompass Economics, English, History, Molecular Biology, Political Science, Psychology, and Public Policy, reflecting its commitment to a well-rounded education. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 49 Lacs ($59,710) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
6.Columbia University
As a distinguished Ivy League institution, Columbia holds a rich legacy in research and education. Situated in the heart of upper Manhattan, New York, Columbia is renowned for its liberal arts and sciences programs.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | Popular majors at Columbia span disciplines such as Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Science, Civil Engineering, Economics, English, History, Neuroscience, Nursing, Operations Research, Political Science, and Psychology, reflecting the university’s commitment to academic breadth. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 54 Lacs ($65,340) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
7. Brown University
Known for its liberal ethos, Brown University stands out as the most progressive among the Ivy League universities in the USA. Renowned for its open curriculum, Brown emphasises undergraduate education over graduate studies, fostering a student-driven approach to learning.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | The most popular majors at Brown include Biology, Economics, Engineering, English, Entrepreneurship, History, Human Biology, International Relations, Neuroscience, and Political Science, embodying Brown’s dedication to individualised and comprehensive education. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 54 Lacs ($65,656) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
8. Dartmouth College
Dartmouth, the smallest of the Ivy League schools, combines the academic breadth of larger institutions with the intimate feel of a liberal arts college. Located in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth leads the Ivy League in the percentage of international students and boasts a robust athletics culture.
Here is a table mentioning popular courses, tuition fees and tests required:
| Popular Courses | Prominent majors at Dartmouth encompass Biology, Economics, Engineering, English, History, Political Science, and Psychology, reflecting its commitment to providing a well-rounded education within a close-knit community. |
| Tuition Fees | Starting approximately 53 Lacs ($63,684) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic |
| Standardised Tests | GRE, GMAT, LSAT |
Why are Ivy League universities so good?
So, why do people think Ivy League universities are fantastic? Well, these are some of the well-reputed universities in the US. They’re known for their excellent academics and a long history of being really good at what they do. But it’s not just that – they also have continued investments to keep things going.
Did you know? Altogether, they have about $150 billion in the establishment, with Harvard having more than $50 billion all by itself.
Because of their great reputation, lots of people want to go there. But, here’s the thing – they don’t take everyone. For every person they let in, they have to say no to at least nine others. And that ability to be selective helps ensure a good supply of students to maintain academic records and ensure continued donations!
When you’re looking for colleges, these Ivy League universities in the USA are usually the first ones you notice. There are a couple of reasons for that. First off, they put in a ton of effort to get really smart, hardworking students worldwide. Secondly, these Ivy League Universities support your career.
Whether you’re into Law, Medicine, Electrical Engineering, or Business – Ivy League universities are the big shots in these areas. Having a degree from one of these places can open up many opportunities for you down the road.
Did you know that Ivy League graduates earned $161,888 or INR 1.3 CR mid-career compared to $101,777 or INR 84 L for those from other institutions?
Requirements For Ivy League Universities
When considering admission to Ivy League universities, understanding the specific requirements is essential.
These prestigious institutions, being private, have unique application processes that can differ for every university. For instance, Harvard’s various graduate schools manage individual admissions and criteria. Submitting an incomplete or inaccurate application can jeopardise your chances of securing a spot.
While Ivy League schools have distinct processes, they share commonalities with other top-tier universities. Regardless of your destination, creating a stellar application is a mindful approach.
What are the key factors you should consider?
Maintain a Strong Academic Record
Despite their athletic origins, Ivy League universities distinguish themselves through academic excellence. Meeting high academic standards is crucial. For graduate courses, a minimum GPA of 3.7 or equivalent in an undergraduate degree is typically expected.
Secure Strong Recommendations
Letters of recommendation hold significant weight in applications. While most universities request one or two, Ivy League universities in the USA applications often require three. These letters should emphasise academic potential and present you as a well-rounded individual.
Write an Impressive Application
Your resume and personal statement allow you to showcase yourself. Highlight experiences or activities that set you apart. Focus on achievements and leadership roles rather than sheer participation in clubs.
Address Additional Requirements
Certain courses may necessitate additional documents, such as essays, reflecting the course’s nature or the school’s ethos. Relevant professional experience, demonstrating practical foundations for the course, is often a requirement.
Some additional requirements can be:
- Passport Requirements:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended course completion date.
- Example: If your 2-year course starts in August 2024 and ends in August 2026, your passport should be valid until February 2027.
- Standardised Test Scores:
- It’s advisable to have your SATs/ACTs (for undergraduates) or GMAT/GRE (for graduate studies) scores ready before applying.
- Some universities may accept applications if you plan to take these tests later, but having your scores ready is better.
- Be prepared to share the reference number of your scorecard with the university.
- Proof of Funds:
- Provide detailed financial information about your family; actual proof is not required.
- Include relevant documents like tax returns.
- Communicate your funding needs, as this information is used to assess eligibility for scholarships and determine your ability to afford the education.
Final Thoughts
The Ivy League universities in the USA symbolise excellence, prestige, and a rich history that exceeds borders in higher education, consistently occupying top positions in the QS World University Rankings for 2024.
For an Indian student, gaining admission into one of these revered institutions becomes a high aspiration similar to achieving the American Dream.
These universities offer a broad spectrum of majors, from Biology to Economics, History to Political Science, reflecting their dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.
Whether it’s the hallowed halls of Harvard, the vibrant streets of Columbia, or the progressive spirit of Brown, each Ivy League institution contributes to education that has influenced generations and will continue to shape the future.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Why are they called Ivy League?
A. The name “Ivy League” is believed to have originated in 1937 when sports writer Caswell Adams was covering a football game between Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania. He coined the term “Ivy League” to reference these institutions adorned with ivy-covered buildings, lending a sense of historic prestige to the athletic conference.
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Q. Can Indians get into the Ivy League?
A. Achieving admission to the Ivy League universities in the USA is indeed possible for Indian students. The key lies in focusing on academic excellence, aligning with the high standards set by these institutions. Indian students, often following the CBSE or ICSE curriculum, should strive for top grades to strengthen their applications.
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Q. Why is Oxford not an Ivy League?
A. Oxford is not part of the Ivy League universities in the USA because it is located in England and is not a member of the Ivy League athletic conference. Founded before the discovery of the Americas, Oxford boasts an older establishment than all Ivy League schools. Oxford consistently held the top spot in global university rankings from 2017 to 2021.
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Q. Why is Stanford not an Ivy?
A. Stanford, MIT, and Duke are not part of the Ivy League universities in the USA due to historical emphasis on athletics, but they are institutions of exceptional standing. These universities stand alongside Ivy League colleges, offering top-tier educational standards and competitive employment opportunities.
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Q. Why is the Ivy League so famous?
A. The fame of Ivy League universities is rooted in their strong academic reputation, complemented by a rich history. Their long track record attracts the brightest students, with over a third of US Presidents attending an Ivy League school. Collectively, these institutions boast an impressive number of Nobel laureates.
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Q. How many Indians apply for Harvard?
A. Annually, Harvard Business School attracts an impressive pool of approximately 1300 applications from Indian students. Despite this substantial number, the competition is fierce, and only a few applicants secure admission. Typically, those admitted constitute a small fraction of the overall HBS class, reflecting the institution’s highly selective admissions process.
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Q. Is Oxford higher than Harvard?
A. In global university rankings, Oxford University consistently claims the top spot, positioning itself above Harvard, which often holds the second position. It’s important to note that these rankings are subject to variations based on different evaluation criteria employed by various ranking systems. Nevertheless, Oxford’s consistent high standing underscores its academic excellence on the global stage.
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Q. Which is the most affordable Ivy League school?
A. Princeton is often acknowledged as the “most affordable Ivy” due to its commitment to extensive financial aid offerings. The university’s robust financial aid programs make a Princeton education more accessible to a diverse range of students, contributing to its reputation as one of the more affordable Ivy League universities in the USA.
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Q. What is the easiest Ivy League school to get into?
A. Cornell is commonly perceived as the youngest and comparatively easier Ivy League school to gain admission to. This perception is based on its acceptance rate, which stands at around 10.9%. While admission to any Ivy League institution is competitive, Cornell’s acceptance rate positions it as a potentially more accessible option for applicants.
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Q. Is studying in the Ivy League worth it?
A. The value of studying at an Ivy League college extends beyond academic excellence. The unparalleled university experience Ivy League universities offer, coupled with a rich history and extensive networks, makes the investment worthwhile. While other universities may offer comparable education, the Ivy League undeniably occupies an elite tier, providing students with unique personal and professional growth opportunities.
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Q. Is MIT an Ivy League school?
A. MIT and Stanford, although not categorised as Ivy League universities in the USA, consistently outperform Harvard in various global university rankings. This underscores their prestigious standing among top-tier educational institutions. While not part of the Ivy League, MIT’s and Stanford’s academic excellence and innovative contributions position them as esteemed leaders in the global education landscape.
