So, you’ve probably heard about Ivy League schools and their prestige, right? But here’s a fun fact: there are only eight Ivy League schools, not 12. Many people get this mixed up because the Ivy League name is so famous, and they assume it includes every top-tier school in the country. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t!
This idea of “12 Ivy League schools” pops up because other big-name schools, like Stanford or MIT, often get grouped in due to their impressive reputations. But technically, they’re not part of the Ivy League. Let’s dive in and break it down so you know which schools are in this exclusive club and why they’re such a big deal.
- How Many Ivy League Schools Are There?
- Where Are the Ivy League Schools Located?
- What Should You Know about Each Ivy League School?
- How to Get into an Ivy League School
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
How Many Ivy League Schools Are There?
There are exactly eight Ivy League schools, and they’re widely recognized for their academic excellence. Initially, this group was formed as part of an athletic conference, but their reputation for top-tier education made them globally famous.
The official Ivy League schools include:
So, why do some people think there are 12 Ivy League schools? It’s because universities like Stanford, MIT, and Duke are often grouped with the Ivy League due to their academic prestige. Even though these schools are outstanding, they aren’t officially part of the Ivy League.
The Ivy League is unique not just for its academics but also because of its shared history and traditions. While schools like Stanford and MIT are incredible in their own right, they don’t belong to this specific group. Now you can confidently set the record straight!
So, are there 12 or 8 Ivy League schools?
Let’s set the record straight, once and for all: there are only eight Ivy League schools. The term “Ivy League” specifically refers to eight private universities in the northeastern United States.
But where did the name “Ivy League” come from, and why is it so special? Well, these schools are some of the oldest in the country, and while they predate the American Revolution, the term “Ivy League” didn’t come around until much later.
In the early 1930s, a sports columnist for the New York Herald-Tribune jokingly referred to Columbia and the University of Pennsylvania as “ivy-covered schools,” and that’s how the term first showed up.
It wasn’t until 1945 that the Ivy League became official when the eight schools agreed to preserve the balance between athletics and academics. They formed committees to set athletic eligibility rules and began organising sports competitions with each other.
Today, Ivy League schools are famous for their excellent education, big endowments, and impressive alumni. But it’s important to remember that these schools aren’t just for the super rich; they offer great financial aid packages to help students from all backgrounds attend.
So if you’re thinking about applying, know that while it’s competitive, it’s all about what you can bring to the table!
Where Are the Ivy League Schools Located?
Even though there are only eight Ivy League schools (again, not 12!), knowing where they’re located can be helpful. Here’s the breakdown:
- Princeton University – Princeton, New Jersey
- Harvard University – Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Yale University – New Haven, Connecticut
- University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Columbia University – New York City, New York
- Dartmouth College – Hanover, New Hampshire
- Brown University – Providence, Rhode Island
- Cornell University – Ithaca, New York
What’s cool about these schools is that they’re all clustered in the northeastern U.S. This gives them a regional vibe that sets them apart from other top colleges scattered across the country.
If you’re into history or tradition, this area is packed with it. Plus, their locations mean you’re never too far from big cities, beautiful nature, or seriously cold winters.
If you’re considering college applications, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement around Ivy League schools. Sure, they’re amazing, but they aren’t the only places offering top-notch education. Schools like the University of Chicago or Caltech can be just as impressive and might even outshine the Ivy League in certain areas.
Remember, the “best” college depends on your desire. Ivy League schools might be famous, but many other institutions offer incredible programs, opportunities, and experiences. It’s all about finding the right fit for you!
What Should You Know about Each Ivy League School?
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you better understand what each Ivy League school offers:
1. Princeton University
Location: Princeton, New Jersey
Acceptance rate: 4.6%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #1 in National Universities
Princeton is one of the most prestigious universities in the country, consistently ranked as the #1 national university. Known for its rigorous academics, Princeton is a top choice for students interested in fields like social sciences, engineering, and public administration.
Princeton offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, meaning you’ll have access to smaller classes where professors are more approachable and can offer personalized attention. With 74% of classes having fewer than 20 students, you’ll find yourself in an environment that fosters collaboration and deeper engagement, allowing you to thrive academically.
2. Harvard University
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Acceptance rate: 3.6%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #3 in National Universities
Harvard, the oldest university in the U.S., is renowned for its top-tier academic programs, particularly in business, law, medicine, and computer science.
Founded in 1636, the university has long been a leader in shaping influential figures in a variety of fields, from U.S. presidents to tech innovators. Harvard’s 12 graduate schools and over 100 research centers provide a dynamic environment for deep academic exploration and cutting-edge research.
The university’s rich history and modern advancements will place you at the forefront of your field, while its location in the vibrant intellectual hub of Cambridge, just outside Boston, ensures access to a thriving professional community.
3. Yale University
Location: New Haven, Connecticut
Acceptance rate: 3.7%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #5 in National Universities
Yale is a powerhouse in the arts, particularly in drama and music. If you’re passionate about performing arts, you’ll find a home here with its renowned School of Drama and top-tier music programs.
Yale is also a top choice for law, politics, and global studies. With its prestigious law school and exceptional international studies programs, Yale offers opportunities to dive deep into critical issues and work with experts from around the world.
With a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio and 73% of classes having fewer than 20 students, you’ll enjoy a learning environment where professors are genuinely invested in your success. Add in over 80 majors and more than 2,000 courses, and you’ll find plenty of chances to explore your interests and excel both academically and personally at Yale.
4. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Acceptance rate: 5.4%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #10 in National Universities
With its highly-ranked programs like the Wharton School of Business and strong offerings in engineering and social sciences, UPenn gives you the opportunity to dive deep into your studies and apply what you learn through internships and research.
At UPenn, there’s so much for you to get involved in outside of class, like joining a club, playing sports, or participating in Greek life. With over 25 NCAA Division I teams, lots of student organizations, and a campus that encourages collaboration, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your time at UPenn.
Plus, with Philly right outside your door, you’ll have access to tons of job opportunities and a strong network of alumni to help you along the way.
5. Columbia University
Location: New York City, New York
Acceptance rate: 3.85%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #13 in National Universities
Columbia University is a great place for you if you’re interested in majors like political science, journalism, business, or engineering, as Columbia is known for its prestigious programs in these fields. The university’s Core Curriculum ensures you get a well-rounded education, helping you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, no matter what major you choose.
Plus, being in NYC means you’re never short on internships, networking opportunities, and real-world experiences, especially in industries like media, tech, and finance.
At Columbia, you’ll be surrounded by students from over 100 countries, giving you the chance to learn from different cultures, viewpoints, and experiences. With nearly 9,000 undergraduates, the diverse community will help you expand your understanding of the world, preparing you for a career in an increasingly interconnected, international job market.
6. Dartmouth College
Location: Hanover, New Hampshire
Acceptance rate: 5.3%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #15 in National Universities
Dartmouth College may be smaller than some other Ivy League schools, but that’s part of what makes it stand out. With a strong focus on business and medicine, Dartmouth is home to the highly respected Tuck School of Business and the Geisel School of Medicine.
Beyond academics, Dartmouth is known for its tight-knit community and commitment to diverse cultural experiences. The college offers unique initiatives supporting Native American students and indigenous studies.
If you’re into the outdoors, Dartmouth’s Outing Club, one of the oldest and largest collegiate outing clubs, provides opportunities for outdoor adventures. Plus, with its rural setting and small student body, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and the chance to form strong connections with professors and peers alike.
7. Brown University
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Acceptance rate: 5.2%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #13 in National Universities
Brown University is all about giving you the freedom to design your educational journey. With its Open Curriculum, you can choose the courses that interest you the most without being stuck in a rigid set of requirements. If you love exploring different subjects and figuring out what truly excites you, this place is perfect for you.
Popular majors include Computer Science, Econometrics, Applied Mathematics, International Relations, and Biology. But Brown is known for its cool interdisciplinary approach, so you can mix and match classes from areas like engineering, art, economics, and philosophy.
This flexibility makes Brown a top choice for students who want a personalized, hands-on education that fits their unique interests.
8. Cornell University
Location: Ithaca, New York
Acceptance rate: 8.4%
National ranking (U.S. News & World Report): #11 in National Universities
Cornell University is the youngest Ivy League school, but don’t let that fool you. It packs a serious punch with its unique focus on real-world applications. If you’re into fields like business, agriculture, or engineering, you’ll definitely find your niche here.
Cornell offers a wide range of programs, including the top-ranked College of Engineering, the SC Johnson College of Business, and even the School of Hotel Administration. Plus, with a global reach, including campuses in places like New York City and Qatar, you can experience new cultures and broaden your horizons.
How to Get into an Ivy League School
If you’re thinking about applying to Ivy League schools, it’s important to think about what you want from your college experience. These schools are super prestigious, but they’re also really competitive. Are you someone who thrives in high-pressure environments? If so, an Ivy League education could be a great fit for you.
To help you understand what it takes to get in, here are some key factors Ivy League schools typically look for:
GPA
Ivy League schools want to see strong academic performance. Here’s a general idea of the target GPA for each school:
| School | Target GPA |
| Harvard | 4.2+ |
| Princeton | 3.94+ |
| Yale | 4.1+ |
| Columbia | 3.9+ |
| Brown | 3.9+ |
| Dartmouth | 3.9+ |
| UPenn | 3.9+ |
| Cornell | 4.1+ |
Test scores
While some Ivy League schools are test-optional, most still consider SAT or ACT scores as part of your application. Here’s a breakdown of what you need:
| School | SAT Range | ACT Range | Test-Optional? |
| Harvard | 1500-1580 | 34-36 | No |
| Princeton | 1510-1560 | 34-35 | No |
| Yale | 1500-1560 | 33-35 | No |
| Columbia | 1500-1560 | 34-35 | No |
| Brown | 1510-1560 | 34-35 | Yes |
| Dartmouth | 1440-1560 | 32-35 | No |
| UPenn | 1500-1570 | 34-35 | Yes |
| Cornell | 1480-1550 | 33-35 | Yes |
Extracurriculars and essays
When it comes to extracurriculars, Ivy League schools love to see that you’re passionate about something. They want to know what you care about and how you’ve committed to it, like through leadership roles, community service, or by getting involved in extracurriculars that really stand out. If you’re involved in a unique activity or cause, that can really make your application shine.
Also, your essays are a big deal. This is your chance to show who you are beyond grades and test scores. It’s important to highlight how you’ve made an impact, especially if you’ve addressed a social issue or challenge. Make your essays personal and use them to tell a compelling story about your experiences, goals, and what drives you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Ivy League?
The Ivy League is a group of eight private universities in the northeastern United States. These schools are known for their academic excellence, selective admissions, and rich history. The Ivy League started as an athletic conference, but the schools gained recognition over time for their rigorous academics, prestigious alumni, and influential research programs.
The Ivy League includes Princeton, Harvard, Yale, Penn, Columbia, Dartmouth, Brown, and Cornell.
2. Are schools like Stanford and MIT part of the Ivy League?
No, even though schools like Stanford University and MIT are often compared to Ivy League schools because of their academic prestige, they are not officially part of the Ivy League. These universities are highly respected and offer world-class programs, but they belong to different athletic conferences and aren’t part of the Ivy League’s historical group.
3. What makes Ivy League schools different from other top colleges?
Ivy League schools stand out for their combination of rigorous academics, strong alumni networks, and historic reputations. While other top schools may offer similar academic programs, Ivy League schools are particularly known for their prestigious history, high-level faculty, and a strong focus on research and leadership. Many students also appreciate the exclusive and tight-knit communities that come with attending one of these renowned institutions.
4. Can I get into an Ivy League school?
Getting into an Ivy League school can be very competitive, as they often have low acceptance rates and receive thousands of applications from highly qualified students. However, it’s not impossible! Focus on excelling in academics, extracurriculars, leadership roles, and standardized tests to increase your chances. Demonstrating your passion, creativity, and unique experiences will help you stand out.
Takeaways
- Ivy League schools are known for their academic excellence, rich history, and strong alumni networks.
- These eight schools offer incredible opportunities but are not the only prestigious institutions. Many other universities, like Stanford, MIT, and the University of Chicago, provide world-class education and opportunities.
- The best college for you is the one that aligns with your interests, career goals, and values.
- Take the time to research and find the school that’s the perfect fit for your ambitions and growth.
- Still feeling stuck? AdmissionSight’s private consulting program can help you navigate the Ivy League admissions process, pick the right school for you, and ace your application.
