So, you’ve set your sights on an Ivy League school—great choice! These elite universities are known for their rigorous academics, prestigious reputations, and the unmatched opportunities they offer. But let’s be real: getting in isn’t easy.
In fact, it’s a challenge that only the most exceptional students can tackle. With acceptance rates that often drop below 5%, it’s no surprise that applying to an Ivy League school feels like signing up for a high-stakes competition.
If you’re wondering which Ivy League school is the hardest to get into, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what makes each Ivy League school unique and how you can boost your chances of getting in. Ready to find out which schools top the list? Let’s get into the hardest Ivy League schools to get into, ranked by their acceptance rates.
- Ranking the Hardest Ivy League Schools to Get Into
- How to Get into an Ivy League School
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
Ranking the Hardest Ivy League Schools to Get Into
Getting into any Ivy League school is a major achievement. But some Ivy League schools are way harder to get into than others. Whether it’s because of their ultra-competitive application pools or their reputation as the best of the best, certain schools stand out as the hardest to crack.
Here’s a rundown of the Ivy League schools that are the hardest to get into, ranked by their latest acceptance rates (Class of 2028), starting with the most selective:
1. Harvard University
- Average GPA: 4.2
- SAT: 1500–1580
- ACT: 34–36
Harvard takes the crown when it comes to selectivity, with an acceptance rate of just 3.6%. To put that into perspective, out of the 54,008 students who applied in the Class of 2028, only 1,937 were admitted. That means for every 100 applicants, only about 3 get the coveted acceptance letter.
No surprise here—Harvard is ranked #3 among national universities by the U.S. News & World Report. If you’re applying, expect to bring your A-game in terms of GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. This is about being well-rounded and ready to take on the world.
2. Yale University
- Average GPA: 4.1
- SAT: 1500–1560
- ACT: 33–35
Ranked #5 among national universities, Yale University is right up there with the best of the best. With an acceptance rate of 3.7%, Yale admitted 2,146 students out of 57,465 applicants for the Class of 2028. This makes it one of the most selective Ivy League schools.
Yale places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, so applicants who can show how their interests span across subjects (or even involve unique projects) tend to stand out. Yale wants students who think outside the box, are engaged in their communities, and are prepared for rigorous academic challenges.
Yale also looks for personal qualities like creativity, leadership, and a genuine passion for making a difference. So your essays and extracurriculars need to reflect that.
3. Columbia University
- Average GPA: 3.9
- SAT: 1500-1560
- ACT: 34–35
Columbia might have one of the most competitive admissions processes, with an acceptance rate of 3.85%. For the Class of 2028, Columbia received 60,248 applications and admitted just 2,319 students. The university is ranked #13 among national universities, which speaks to its reputation and academic rigor.
Located in the heart of New York City, Columbia attracts a diverse and dynamic student body, and it’s known for being extremely selective. The school’s Core Curriculum (which every student must complete) means you’ll be studying everything from Western history to literature, regardless of your major.
To get in, you need to show not just academic excellence but also a desire to engage with a wide range of subjects. Columbia looks for students who will contribute to its vibrant, fast-paced academic environment. So if you’ve got a strong academic track record and a passion for intellectual growth, you’ll be a step ahead.
4. Princeton University
- Average GPA: 3.94
- SAT: 1510 and 1560
- ACT: 34–35
Princeton University is another heavyweight on the Ivy League list, with an acceptance rate of just 4.62%. For the Class of 2028, 40,468 students applied, and only 1,868 were admitted. Out of those admitted, only 1,411 enrolled.
Princeton is ranked #1 among national universities by the U.S. News & World Report, which just goes to show how top-notch its academics and undergraduate programs are. So, when it comes to Ivy League rankings, Princeton isn’t just at the top of the Ivies—it’s also #1 in the entire country.
What makes Princeton unique is its laser focus on undergraduate education, meaning they are looking for students who will thrive in a smaller, more intimate academic environment. More than just stellar grades, Princeton looks for students who are intellectually curious and passionate about their studies.
You’ll need more than just a solid GPA and SAT score to stand out here. Princeton values a genuine interest in learning, especially in fields like the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. A well-rounded academic background, strong essays, and unique extracurriculars will go a long way in increasing your chances..
5. Brown University
- Average GPA: 3.9
- SAT: 1510 and 1570
- ACT: 34–36
Brown University stands out from other Ivies thanks to its open curriculum, which lets students choose their classes without any required core courses. With an acceptance rate of 5.1%, Brown admitted only 2,521 students out of 48,989 applicants for the Class of 2028.
Brown is ranked #14 among national universities by the U.S. News & World Report, which makes it one of the top choices for students who want a unique, flexible education. So, while it’s not at the very top of the Ivy League rankings, it’s still one of the best universities in the country—especially for those who thrive in a self-driven, open curriculum.
While that sounds amazing, it also means Brown is looking for applicants who can handle the freedom and responsibility of designing their own academic path. The school cares less about fitting a “mold” and more about whether you can thrive in a highly collaborative setting.
Brown’s admissions process is highly holistic, meaning they look for students who demonstrate academic excellence, self-motivation, curiosity, and the ability to take on a flexible, but demanding, academic environment.
5. Dartmouth College
- Average GPA: 3.9
- SAT: 1440–1560
- ACT: 32–35
Dartmouth College is known for its close-knit community and strong focus on undergraduate education. With a 5.3% acceptance rate, it’s definitely competitive, but the small size of the student body means it has a slightly lower acceptance rate compared to the other Ivies.
For the Class of 2028, 31,656 students applied, and 1,710 were admitted. Dartmouth thrives on tight academic and social connections, so they’re looking for students who will contribute to that culture. Ranked #15 among national universities, Dartmouth offers a unique Ivy League experience that combines a rigorous education with a strong sense of community.
In addition to academic excellence, Dartmouth values students who have a sense of adventure and leadership, particularly in outdoor activities, public service, or student organizations. If you’re someone who thrives in smaller, more intimate environments, Dartmouth could be a great fit.
7. University of Pennsylvania
- Average GPA: 3.9
- SAT: 1500–1570
- ACT: 34–36
The University of Pennsylvania has an acceptance rate of 5.4%, which, while slightly higher than the others, still reflects how tough it is to get in. The Class of 2028 saw 65,235 applicants, with only 3,508 gaining admission. Ranked #13 among national universities (tied with Columbia), UPenn is a powerhouse in higher education.
UPenn is known for its focus on combining academics with real-world applications. It has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, thanks in large part to the Wharton School of Business. If you’re applying to UPenn, you’ll need to demonstrate academic excellence, but also a clear passion for applying your knowledge outside of the classroom.
Plus, the school’s interdisciplinary approach means they want students who can think broadly across fields—so if you’re passionate about combining business with the arts, or law with technology, UPenn might be the right place for you.
8. Cornell University
- Average GPA: 4.1
- SAT: 1480–1550
- ACT: 33–35
Cornell University has the highest acceptance rate among Ivy League schools at 8.4%, but don’t be fooled—getting into Cornell is still highly competitive. For the Class of 2028, Cornell received 65,612 applications and admitted only 5,516 students.
Ranked #11 among national universities, Cornell is definitely one of the big names in the Ivy League. What makes Cornell different is its vast range of academic programs, from agriculture and engineering to hotel management and industrial relations. Because Cornell has multiple colleges and schools, some of them have more competitive admissions than others.
For example, the College of Engineering or the School of Hotel Administration is especially selective, while other schools within Cornell might have slightly higher acceptance rates. Regardless, Cornell values academic excellence, leadership, and unique personal experiences.
How to Get into an Ivy League School
Yes, stellar test scores and top-notch GPAs are important for getting into an Ivy League school, but presenting a holistic, well-rounded application is just as important, if not more. Here are some tips to improve your chances of getting into these highly competitive schools:
1. Start early (like, really early).
Don’t wait until your junior or senior year to start thinking about your Ivy League applications. The earlier you start planning, the better. Begin in freshman year by building a strong academic record and exploring extracurriculars you actually care about.
If you wait until the last minute to figure everything out, you’ll be playing catch-up. Plan ahead, and you’ll be way ahead of the game.
2. Excel in academics.
Your GPA is the foundation of your application, so make sure it’s as strong as it can be. Ivy League schools want students who challenge themselves. Take advanced classes like AP, IB, or honors whenever you can.
But don’t just do it for the “I took hard classes” look—actually try to do well in them. They want to see that you can handle tough coursework and still succeed. And remember: it’s not about being perfect—if you hit some bumps along the way, that’s okay! What matters is how you bounce back and show your academic growth.
3. Boost your test scores (but don’t stress).
Ivy League schools still care about SAT and ACT scores, but many are test-optional now. If you decide to submit your scores, aim for scores that place you in the top 10–20% of applicants. For SATs, aim for 1500+, and for ACTs, try for 34 or higher.
If you’re not happy with your scores, it’s okay to retake them, but don’t stress if they aren’t perfect. Just focus on getting the best score you can, then move on to the other parts of your application.
4. Get involved in extracurriculars that matter.
It’s not enough to just be busy. Ivy League schools want to see that you’re involved in activities that you’re actually passionate about and that you’ve taken on leadership roles or made a real impact. You don’t have to do every club or activity under the sun.
Pick a few things and stick with them. Whether it’s volunteering, sports, music, or being active in your community, focus on making a real difference. Schools want students who will bring something valuable to campus, and extracurriculars are a big part of that.
5. Write a personal essay that’s actually personal.
Your essay is your chance to show the admissions team who you are beyond your grades and scores. So don’t make it sound like anyone else’s essay. Don’t try to write what you think they want to hear.
Instead, write about something that matters to you—it can be a challenge you’ve overcome, a personal passion, or an experience that shaped who you are. Be genuine and real. Admissions teams can spot a fake essay from a mile away, so don’t try to be someone you’re not.
6. Ask for strong recommendations.
Your letters of recommendation can make or break your Ivy League application, so choosing the right teachers is key. Go for teachers who know you well, not just the ones you got the best grades with. The most effective recommendations come from those who can speak to your character, work ethic, and potential.
It’s also important to ask early. Give your teachers at least 3–4 weeks before the deadline so they have enough time to write something thoughtful. When you ask for a recommendation, give them some context about why you’re applying and the strengths you want them to highlight, like your leadership, problem-solving skills, or teamwork.
And don’t forget to follow up with a thank-you note after the letter is submitted—it’s a great way to show appreciation and keep your relationship strong for the future. A personal, well-thought-out letter can really help show who you are beyond your grades.
7. Show you’re a good fit for the school.
Each Ivy League school has its own vibe, so make sure your application matches what that school is looking for. Do some research and figure out what each school values and how you fit in with those values.
Whether it’s a school’s academic strengths, its community vibe, or its extracurricular focus, make sure you highlight how you’ll contribute to that school’s unique culture.
8. Stay positive and don’t give up.
It’s easy to get discouraged, but remember—getting into an Ivy League school is tough, even for the best students. If you don’t get in, it’s not the end of the world. There are plenty of other amazing schools out there, and many successful people didn’t get into their first-choice school. Keep trying, stay focused, and use every experience to grow. You’ll get there!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the hardest Ivy League to get into based on acceptance rates?
The hardest Ivy League schools to get into are those with the lowest acceptance rates. Harvard University, with an acceptance rate of just 3.6%, is the most selective Ivy League school. Other schools with low acceptance rates include Yale (3.7%), Columbia (3.85%), Princeton (4.6%), making them some of the hardest Ivy League schools to get into.
2. How can I improve my chances of getting into an Ivy League school?
To increase your chances of getting into an Ivy League school, focus on excelling academically, participating in meaningful extracurricular activities, and submitting a strong personal essay. Strong SAT/ACT scores, especially in the top percentiles, are important. A deep understanding of how to get into an Ivy League school includes building a well-rounded application that matches the school’s values and culture.
3. What are the latest Ivy League schools’ acceptance rates?
The latest Ivy League schools’ acceptance rates are as follows: Harvard (3.6%), Yale (3.7%), Columbia (3.85%), Princeton (4.6%), Brown (5.2%), Dartmouth (5.3%) University of Pennsylvania (5.4%), and Cornell (8.4%).
4. Do Ivy League rankings really matter when it comes to getting into the hardest Ivy League schools?
Ivy League rankings definitely give you an idea of how prestigious a school is, but they don’t totally decide your chances of getting in. The hardest Ivy League schools to get into, like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, have extremely low acceptance rates because the competition is intense. That said, knowing the rankings can help you understand what each school values and what they’re looking for in applicants. The trick is to focus on what makes you stand out, no matter where the school ranks.
Takeaways
Figuring out how to get into the hardest Ivy League schools can feel like a high-stakes game, but with the right strategy, you can definitely improve your chances. Here are the most important things to keep in mind:
- When it comes to Ivy League schools, Harvard University consistently ranks as the hardest Ivy League to get into, with an acceptance rate of just 3.6%. It’s ultra-competitive, requiring top-notch grades, test scores, and standout extracurriculars.
- Each Ivy League school has its own vibe and strengths. It’s important to research Ivy League rankings and choose a school that aligns with your academic interests and values.
- Academic excellence is key. To get into an Ivy League school, you’ll need strong grades and test scores—typically 1500+ on the SAT or 34+ on the ACT.
- How to get into an Ivy League school goes beyond just academics. It’s about demonstrating leadership, involvement in meaningful extracurriculars, and showing how you’ll contribute to the community. A well-rounded application will make you stand out.
- Gunning for the hardest Ivy League schools to get into but not sure how to make the cut? A college admissions consultant can provide expert and personalized strategies to enhance your application, refine your essays, and maximize your strengths.
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