Top 7 Ivy Plus Schools: List + Tips

You don’t need to attend an Ivy League school to get an Ivy-level education. Alternatives like the Hidden Ivies, Little Ivies, and New Ivy League schools offer the same rigorous academics, even if they aren’t as widely known.

Another group of elite schools to keep on your radar are the Ivy Plus schools. They’re just as competitive and prestigious but might not be in the Northeast. Keep reading to learn more about which schools are included, how they rank, and what makes them unique.

• What Are the Ivy Plus Schools?
• List of Ivy Plus Schools
• 12 Tips for Getting into an Ivy Plus School
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Are the Ivy Plus Schools?

Ivy Plus schools are considered Ivy League equivalent schools. When compared to the Ivies, these institutions offer a similar level of academic excellence and competitive admissions. You’ll need to craft a well-rounded application, just like you would for any top-tier college. That means a high GPA, well-written essays, and strong letters of recommendation.

The “Plus“ refers to other prestigious schools like Stanford, MIT, and Caltech, among others. Unlike the Ivy League, which is mainly in the Northeast since those schools were among the first in the country, Ivy Plus schools are spread across the U.S.

They consistently rank among the top universities in the country, have large endowments, and have outstanding alumni networks. Ivy Plus schools may also partner on research initiatives, exchange programs, or joint events.

There’s no official list of Ivy Plus schools, so you might see different schools included depending on the source. In this blog, we’re covering seven of the most well-known ones, but what really matters is that these schools are known for their rigorous academics, competitive admissions, and reputation for research.

Ivy Plus schools ranking

Ivy Plus schools consistently rank among the top 20 universities in the country, right alongside the eight Ivy League schools. Let’s take a closer look at how they stack up, according to the U.S. News & World Report.

This table gives you a good sense of how competitive Ivy Plus schools are. Schools like MIT, Stanford, and Caltech are consistently ranked among the top 10 national universities, which isn’t surprising given their strong academics and research opportunities.

There’s also the fact that five schools are ranked at #6, which only reinforces their elite status. Even schools like UChicago and Northwestern, while slightly lower in the rankings, remain some of the country’s most respected and sought-after schools.

Now, let’s talk about acceptance rates. These numbers don’t lie about how selective these places are. Caltech’s acceptance rate is a jaw-dropping 2.3%, which is even lower than some Ivy League schools. Stanford and MIT aren’t far behind with rates under 5%, and even Northwestern, at 7.6%, is way more competitive than your average college.

List of Ivy Plus Schools

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

SAT/ACT range: 1510-1580, 34-36

If your passion is math, science, or engineering, MIT is pretty much the dream school. It’s recognized as the best engineering school in the U.S. and one of the best in the world for STEM. They want students with strong grades and test scores, but what really stands out are accomplishments in research, competitions, and other STEM projects.

With a sprawling campus right near Boston, MIT attracts some of the brightest students from around the world, especially those passionate about the hard sciences.

2. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, California

SAT/ACT range: 1500-1580, 34-35

Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford University is known for innovation, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge technology. If you’re into startups or just want to be in an environment where big ideas are the norm, then Stanford could be for you. It’s part of the HYPSM group (Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, MIT), which tells you just how hard it is to get in.

Stanford’s campus is stunning, too. Think palm trees, sunshine, and a mix of modern and classic architecture. Plus, Stanford really values interdisciplinary learning, so you can freely explore multiple interests, think creatively, and collaborate with others.

3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Location: Pasadena, California

SAT/ACT range: 1530-1570, 35-36

Caltech is widely known for science and engineering research. Despite its smaller student body, it rivals the Ivy League in producing Nobel Prize winners. If you love research and are obsessed with understanding how things work, Caltech could be perfect for you. A whopping 90% of undergraduates engage in research during their time at the school!

Caltech also has some friendly rivalry with MIT, which isn’t surprising, considering both are the best STEM-focused schools in the world. It conducts groundbreaking research in physics, chemistry, astronomy, and other fields, which helps build the school’s reputation as a world-class institution.

4. Duke University

Location: Durham, North Carolina

SAT/ACT range: 1520-1570, 34-35

Duke University combines academic excellence with Southern charm. It’s got a strong reputation in fields like computer science, economics, and public policy, but it’s also known for its elite basketball program. The campus is gorgeous, and the vibe is a mix of intense academics and strong school spirit.

Plus, Duke has a world-class medical center right there in Durham, so if you’re thinking about a future in health or research, you’ll have tons of opportunities to get hands-on experience.

5. Johns Hopkins University

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

SAT/ACT range: 1530-1580, 34-35

If you want to pursue medicine or health sciences, Hopkins is the place to be. Their biomedical engineering and public health programs are legendary, and the nearby Johns Hopkins Hospital is ranked #1 in Maryland and the Baltimore region, according to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals 2024–25 Honor Roll.

But Hopkins is not just about science! It also has one of the few creative writing programs for undergrads, which is pretty cool if you’re interested in both science and the arts.

6. University of Chicago (UChicago)

Location: Chicago, Illinois

SAT/ACT range: 1510-1570, 34-35

UChicago is the place for deep thinkers. It’s known for its rigorous academics, especially in economics and law. If you like to question things and aren’t afraid of big, complex ideas, UChicago could be a great fit.

The school is also famous for its quirky essay prompts, so they really want to see how your brain works. The campus itself is in a beautiful part of Chicago, and the intellectual vibe is great! You’ll definitely find your people here if you’re into lively debates and philosophical conversations.

7. Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, Illinois

SAT/ACT range: 1490-1580, 33-35

Northwestern has a bit of everything. It’s known for excellent programs in economics, engineering, and psychology, but it also stands out in journalism and theater. The Medill School of Journalism and the Kellogg School of Management are among the best in the country, so if you’re thinking about a career in media or business, you’ll have solid options here.

Plus, the campus is right on Lake Michigan, and you’re just a short train ride away from Chicago. If you’re looking for a school that blends strong academics with a well-rounded college experience, Northwestern’s for you.

12 Tips for Getting into an Ivy Plus School

Getting into an Ivy Plus school isn’t easy, but it’s doable if you know what to focus on. These schools look for more than just strong grades; they want well-rounded students who show leadership, passion, and a drive to make a difference.

If you’re ready to put in the work, here’s a guide to help make your application stand out:

1. Maintain a GPA of 3.9 or higher

A high GPA (think 3.9 or above) is essential if you’re aiming for an Ivy Plus school. Taking challenging courses like Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) shows you can handle rigorous academics. Ivy Plus schools expect excellence, so the stronger your GPA, the better your chances.

2. Aim for a 1550+ SAT or 35+ ACT score.

While some Ivy Plus schools are test-optional, a high test score can give you an edge. A 1550 on the SAT or a 35 on the ACT shows you’re academically competitive. If you decide to take the test, aim high and consider taking it more than once to maximize your score.

3. Take at least five AP exams.

Ivy Plus schools value students who push themselves academically. Taking at least five AP exams shows you’re ready for college-level work. If you can manage more, even better! It demonstrates your ability to handle a heavy workload and succeed.

4. Show leadership and passion through extracurriculars.

It’s not just about what you do in the classroom. Ivy Plus schools want to see that you’re passionate about your interests and taking the initiative. Whether coding, debate, sports, or community service, find something you care about and take on a leadership role.

Starting a club, leading a project, or organizing an event shows you’re making an impact. Here are some concrete examples of how you can demonstrate leadership and passion through extracurriculars:

• Started a coding club. Maybe you founded a coding club at your high school, organized weekly meetings, and led a team to develop a school app.
• Debate team captain. Perhaps you led your school’s debate team to a regional championship, organized practice sessions, and mentored new members.
• Community service project leader. Maybe you created a neighborhood recycling program, coordinated volunteers, and secured funding through local partnerships.
• Sports team captain. For example, you served as the captain of the varsity basketball team, organized team-building activities, and improved the team’s record through strategy sessions.
• Charity fundraiser organizer. For example, you planned and led a charity 5K race, raising $10,000 for a local children’s hospital through sponsorships and event promotions.

5. Get involved in academic research.

Participating in research sets you apart from other applicants. Whether in science, humanities, or social sciences, Ivy Plus schools look for curious and eager students to explore their academic interests on a deeper level. Research experience also proves you’re ready for the intellectual challenges of college.

For example, you could conduct an independent project on how sleep patterns affect academic performance and present your findings at a local psychology conference. Or, how about participating in the Conrad Challenge and developing a solution for renewable energy?

If there are professors whose work you admire, you could also reach out and, if you’re lucky, land a research internship after sending out enough emails and making the right connections.

6. Attend a prestigious summer program.

Spending your summer at a program hosted by top-tier schools can boost your application. It shows you’re committed to academic growth and gives you a taste of what studying at an Ivy Plus school is like. Plus, you’ll meet other motivated students and build valuable connections.

For example, you could join the Stanford Humanities Institute, where you’ll spend three weeks exploring big questions through seminars led by Stanford professors. At MIT’s Beaver Works Summer Institute, you can tackle hands-on STEM challenges alongside top students from around the world. Even attending an SAT prep program through a university or a respected provider can demonstrate your dedication to excelling academically.

7. Volunteer.

Ivy Plus schools value students who give back. Volunteering with local organizations like Amnesty International or participating in global initiatives shows you care about making a difference. It also helps you develop leadership skills and demonstrates that you’re driven by more than just personal success.

You could volunteer virtually through All for Good by tutoring students from home or spend a summer building houses with Habitat for Humanity.

If you want to set the bar even higher, work toward earning the Congressional Award by completing volunteer service, personal development, and physical fitness goals. It’s a nationally recognized honor that reflects your dedication and well-rounded character and will really make your application stand out.

8. Compete in academic competitions.

Taking part in science fairs, math Olympiads, or writing contests is a great way to stand out. Winning or placing in these competitions highlights your academic strengths and shows you can excel under pressure. Ivy Plus schools love students who thrive in competitive environments.

For example, you could compete in the Regeneron Science Talent Search with a biology research project or join the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) to test your problem-solving skills. If you’re more into the humanities, excelling in the National History Bee can also make your application stand out.

9. Write authentic and compelling essays.

Your personal statement and supplemental essays are your chance to show who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Be genuine and let your personality shine through. Ivy Plus schools want students who aren’t just smart but also passionate, creative, and driven.

10. Secure strong letters of recommendation.

A thoughtful letter from a teacher or mentor who knows you well can make a big difference. Choose someone who can speak to your academic strengths, work ethic, and character. A strong recommendation helps admissions officers see the person behind the application.

11. Prepare for your interviews.

If you’re offered an interview, treat it like a big deal. Be prepared to discuss why you’re interested in the school and how you’d contribute to its community. Research the school beforehand so you can ask thoughtful questions and show that you’ve done your homework.

12. Show genuine interest in the school.

Admissions officers can tell when you’re genuinely interested in a school. Visit campuses, attend virtual events, and connect with current students or admissions staff. Demonstrating genuine interest helps you stand out and ensures you’re applying to a place that aligns with your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does Ivy Plus mean?

“Ivy Plus“ refers to colleges often grouped with Ivy League schools for their academic excellence, selective admissions, and prestigious reputations. Schools like MIT, Stanford, Caltech, Duke, UChicago, Johns Hopkins, and Northwestern are often included in this group. Even though they’re not officially part of the Ivies, they’re seen as being on the same level.

2. Do Ivy Plus schools offer financial aid?

Yes, most Ivy Plus schools offer generous need-based financial aid, and some provide merit-based scholarships. Make sure to check the official website of the school you’re applying to to learn its eligibility criteria and application process.

3. Are Ivy Plus schools better than other top universities?

It depends on what you mean by “better.“ If you’re looking for strong academics, a vibrant campus culture, high rankings, and a selective admissions process, Ivy Plus schools fit the bill. However, other top universities offer similar advantages, and some students might prefer them for personal reasons like a specific program or campus location.

Takeaways

• Ivy Plus schools are considered equivalent to the Ivy League, offering the same level of rigorous academics and a highly selective admissions process.
• Some examples of Ivy Plus schools include Stanford, MIT, and Caltech.Unlike the Ivy League schools, which are concentrated in the Northeast, Ivy Plus schools are spread across the U.S.
• To get into these schools, you’ll need to craft a strong application, including a high GPA, well-crafted essays, and strong letters of recommendation.
• Work with a private admissions consultant to get personalized advice on strengthening your application and improving your chances of getting accepted.