Ivy League Schools: Essential Insights
Ivy League schools collectively enroll just about 1% of U.S. college students, yet their graduates make up nearly 12% of Fortune 500 CEOs. These 8 prestigious universities are pioneers in shaping industries, ideas, and global leaders. The Ivy League has long been synonymous with excellence, tradition, and influence.
In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about Ivy colleges, from their history and what makes them unique to tips for getting accepted. If you're considering applying to any of these schools, this guide will help you understand what sets these institutions apart and whether they're the right fit for your goals.
And, if you're feeling stuck in your research and unsure how to move forward, let our expert team help! Buy college essays online and deal with the challenge professionally.
What is IVY League?
So, what are Ivy League schools exactly?
The Ivy League is a group of eight prestigious universities in the northeastern United States. Originally, the term referred to an athletic conference formed in 1954, but today, it represents academic excellence, social prestige, and highly selective admissions.
This brings up an important question: what makes a school Ivy League? Three main factors stand out: rigorous academics, influential alumni, and significant financial resources.
What really sets Ivy League colleges apart from other top universities is their long history and strong reputation. Schools like Stanford or MIT are just as prestigious, but they're not part of the Ivy League. The Ivy League's unique identity comes from its traditions, combining world-class education with cultural significance that goes beyond just sports.
Why Do They Call It an Ivy League School?
You might be wondering: why is it called the Ivy League?
The name comes from the ivy-covered buildings on the campuses of these schools. It started gaining popularity in the 1930s when sports writers used it to describe their athletic conference. Over time, the term became linked to the school's academic and cultural prestige. Today, the Ivy League is more than just an athletic group. It's a symbol of a certain standard in higher education, recognized worldwide for shaping leaders and innovators.
How Many Ivy League Schools Are There?
So, how many Ivy League schools are there?
There are eight Ivy League schools: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Each school is located in the northeastern United States and is known for its academic excellence and cultural impact. Though distinct, these institutions are united under the Ivy League banner, representing the highest standards of education and leadership. They consistently rank among the world's best, making them highly sought-after by students worldwide.
Why is MIT Not Ivy League?
MIT is not part of the Ivy League because it wasn't included in the athletic conference that defined the group. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT focuses heavily on science, technology, and engineering, and it rivals Ivy League schools in reputation and academics. However, the Ivy League designation is tied to history and geography, not just academic quality.
Similarly, you might wonder - why is Stanford not an ivy? Well, Stanford, a top-ranked school in California, is not an Ivy League member due to its location and history. While it competes with Ivy League universities in terms of academics and prestige, Stanford was never part of the athletic conference that defines the group.
Many also wonder - is UCLA in the Ivy League? Although highly respected, UCLA is not an Ivy League school either. It's a part of the University of California system located on the West Coast, far from the Ivy League's northeastern roots.
See related: Most expensive colleges.
History and Origins of the Ivy League
The Ivy League officially became an athletic conference in 1954, uniting eight universities in the northeastern United States to create common rules for sports competitions. However, the term "Ivy League" had been used since the 1930s, thanks to these schools' strong academic reputation, long-standing traditions, and campuses covered in ivy.
These universities are among the oldest in the U.S., with roots dating back to colonial times. For instance, Harvard was founded in 1636, making it the first college in America, and Yale followed in 1701 with a focus on classical education. These schools played a major role in shaping higher education in the U.S.
Over time, the Ivy League became more than just an athletic group. Today, these schools are famous worldwide for their research, academic excellence, and influential alumni. They have had a significant impact on science, politics, business, and the arts.
Today, attending an Ivy League university symbolizes more than just academic achievement. It represents exclusivity, tradition, and influence, attracting top students and faculty from all over the world.
Complete List of Ivy League Schools
As the Ivy League continues to attract the brightest minds from around the world, let's take a quick look at the Ivy League schools list with key stats, shared by our college essay writer.
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Harvard University: Cambridge, MA
Harvard, located in one of the most iconic Ivy League school locations, is the oldest university in the United States, founded in 1636. It's world-renowned for its academic excellence, iconic red-brick buildings, and expansive libraries. But did you know about the quirky Statue of Three Lies in Harvard Yard? The inscription claims it's a likeness of John Harvard, founder of the university in 1638. In reality, the statue doesn't depict John Harvard, he didn't found the school, and it was established in 1636.
Another lesser-known fact is Harvard's Widener Library - home to 3.5 million books and an underground labyrinth of stacks that connect to several other buildings. Harvard also runs the Arnold Arboretum, a massive tree-filled park that's both a research facility and a hidden gem for relaxation.
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: Harvard Yard and Hasty Pudding Theatricals.
- Famous alumni: Mark Zuckerberg, Natalie Portman, Barack Obama.
- Campus culture: World-class academics paired with centuries-old traditions like "The Game" against Yale.
Yale University: New Haven, CT
Yale's residential college system creates a strong sense of community, with each student assigned to one of 14 colleges. The university excels in the arts, with its Yale Repertory Theatre and Yale School of Drama producing award-winning talent. Yale's Old Campus hosts many traditional events, including the raucous Freshman Olympics. The surrounding city of New Haven offers a dynamic mix of culture, cuisine (famous for its pizza), and history.
A defining feature of Ivy League campuses, Yale is known for its Gothic architecture and intellectual prestige. However, its secret societies, like Skull and Bones, often steal the spotlight. Behind closed doors, these societies host famous alumni gatherings and rituals. Yale is also home to the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, which contains one of the world's rarest books, the Voynich Manuscript. It's written in an unknown language and has baffled scholars for centuries.
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: Sterling Memorial Library and singing competitions like The Whiffenpoofs.
- Famous alumni: Meryl Streep, Hillary Clinton, George H.W. Bush.
- Campus culture: Fosters creativity and collaboration with a strong tradition in the arts and humanities.
Brown University: Providence, RI
Among the names of Ivy League schools, Brown stands out for its open curriculum, letting students design their own educational paths. But what's less known is its history of embracing diversity - it was one of the first Ivies to admit women and has a long-standing commitment to social justice.
Brown is also home to the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, showcasing artifacts from ancient cultures. Van Wickle Gates is a quirky campus feature: students walk through them only twice - once during orientation and again at graduation.
The school also values community and social impact, as shown through its Swearer Center for Public Service. Brown has a lively arts scene, with the Granoff Center for the Creative Arts hosting many events. Located on College Hill in Providence, the campus is surrounded by historic streets, cozy shops, and trendy restaurants.
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: The Van Wickle Gates (symbol of new beginnings and farewells) and Ivy Day celebrations.
- Famous alumni: Emma Watson, John Krasinski, Janet Yellen.
- Campus culture: Known for its open curriculum, which encourages intellectual freedom. A strong focus on inclusivity and student-led initiatives.
Columbia University: New York, NY
Columbia's campus is in Morningside Heights, a quieter part of New York City. The school has a strong history in writing, with students contributing to the Columbia Review, the nation's oldest college literary magazine. The campus is home to Low Steps, a beloved hangout spot for students.
However, few know that Columbia's Butler Library is rumored to have secret tunnels used during Prohibition to transport liquor. Columbia also runs the Double Discovery Center, a mentorship program for underprivileged high school students, showcasing its commitment to community impact.
Also, here's an interesting fact: The university's Core Curriculum has remained almost unchanged for over 100 years. We can say that this reflects its dedication to a well-rounded education!
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: Butler Library, vibrant arts scene, and the Core Curriculum tradition.
- Famous alumni: Barack Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Langston Hughes.
- Campus culture: Deeply integrated into NYC's energy, offering a diverse and urban experience. Notable for its academic rigor and cultural vibrancy.
Cornell University: Ithaca, NY
Cornell, located in one of the most picturesque locations of Ivy League schools, is the only Ivy League school with a land-grant mission, meaning it focuses on public service and practical education. The school is famed for its stunning gorges and waterfalls, with over 150 cascading streams near campus. Beyond its natural beauty, it's the only Ivy with a school of hotel administration, considered the best in the world.
Cornell also has a unique Dragon Day tradition, where architecture students parade a giant dragon through campus each spring. Lesser-known is Cornell's Clocktower Chimesmasters, a group of students who perform live concerts from the campus bell tower, serenading the university with everything from classical tunes to pop hits. Being one of the pioneers in apple breeding, Cornell's agricultural roots run deep, too.
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: Overlooks the Finger Lakes; Dragon Day is a celebrated tradition.
- Famous alumni: Toni Morrison, Bill Nye, Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
- Campus culture: Renowned for its multidisciplinary focus and picturesque surroundings.
Dartmouth College: Hanover, NH
Dartmouth might be small, but its community and traditions are mighty. Its rural New Hampshire setting is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with the nearby Appalachian Trail often used by students. Dartmouth is also known for its "Big Green" spirit, but few people know about the Winter Carnival. This student-run festival features ice sculptures, snowshoe races, and quirky competitions. Dartmouth's Baker-Berry Library hides the Orozco Murals, a striking series of paintings depicting Latin American history. And if you've heard of Animal House, Dartmouth's fraternities inspired the classic comedy film, adding a humorous twist to its rich history.
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: Baker-Berry Library and the iconic Winter Carnival tradition.
- Famous alumni: Robert Frost, Mindy Kaling, Nelson Rockefeller.
- Campus culture: Emphasizes close-knit community bonds and strong outdoor traditions like hiking and skiing.
Princeton University: Princeton, NJ
Princeton's Gothic-style campus feels like stepping into a fairytale, but its lesser-known traditions make it special. Reunions Weekend is a huge alumni gathering featuring a legendary P-rade of returning graduates in colorful costumes. Princeton's eating clubs are an integral part of its social scene, blending dining and networking for upperclassmen. Did you know Princeton has its own Art Museum with over 100,000 pieces, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces? Einstein even strolled its grounds as a faculty member in the 1930s, adding a touch of genius to the university's history. And fun fact: the tiger mascot reflects its fierce school spirit.
Additional information:
- Campus highlights: Gothic architecture and exclusive Eating Clubs.
- Famous alumni: Michelle Obama, Jeff Bezos, F. Scott Fitzgerald.
- Campus culture: Known for intimate class sizes and its unique senior thesis requirement.
University of Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, PA
Penn blends historic charm with innovation. Benjamin Franklin founded the university, and his practical wisdom still inspires its focus on interdisciplinary studies. It was the first that established the medical school in the U.S., shaping the future of healthcare.
The school offers students the chance to study across its 12 schools, including the world-famous Wharton School of Business. The Pennovation Center helps students bring their ideas to life through research and entrepreneurship. The Fisher Fine Arts Library is an architectural masterpiece, often called one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
With over 450 student clubs, there's always something happening. In fact, there's a quirky tradition - Hey Day, when juniors wear red shirts and foam hats to celebrate becoming seniors.
Additional information:
- Campus Highlights: Locust Walk and the high-energy Spring Fling festival.
- Famous Alumni: Elon Musk, John Legend, Warren Buffett.
- Campus Culture: Combines Ivy League prestige with a pre-professional focus.
Public Ivies, Ivy Plus, and Hidden Ivies
While these schools are not part of the official Ivy League, they are often compared.
- Public Ivies are public universities offering Ivy League-level education at a lower cost. Examples include the University of Michigan, UC Berkeley, and the University of Virginia.
- Ivy Plus includes top universities like Stanford, MIT, and Duke, which rival Ivy League schools in reputation and academics. These schools attract high-achieving students and maintain global prestige.
- Hidden Ivies are lesser-known private colleges that offer rigorous academics and close-knit communities similar to those experienced by Ivy League students. Examples include Amherst College and Pomona College.
What Makes Ivy League Schools Special?
Ivy League schools are famous for their high standards and top-notch education. These schools, like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, consistently rank among the best in the world. But what makes them so unique?
- Networking: One of the biggest perks of attending an Ivy League school is the alumni network. Graduates often stay connected and help each other out. For new graduates, this network can open doors to jobs or interviews. Even as students, many can use these connections to find internships or learn new skills.
- Investment in Students: Ivy League schools spend significantly more on each student compared to other universities. While the tuition is often higher, the resources students receive are unmatched. On average, an Ivy League school spends $92,000 per student, compared to just $12,000 at other institutions. This investment translates into better facilities, smaller classes, and more opportunities.
- Exceptional Resources: Students at Ivy League schools have access to world-class professors and researchers. Many of these faculty members are leaders in their fields and actively work on groundbreaking projects. This means students get to learn directly from experts and participate in cutting-edge research.
- High Earning Potential: An Ivy League degree can boost earning potential. According to surveys, graduates from schools like Princeton, Harvard, and the University of Pennsylvania are among the highest earners a decade after graduating.
- Career Opportunities: Ivy League graduates are highly sought after by top employers. Companies like Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, and Morgan Stanley actively recruit from these schools.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Into an Ivy League School?
Getting into an Ivy League university is highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10%. To increase your chances, start by understanding what admissions committees value most.
Meanwhile, here's a detailed guide on how to write a college admission essay.
2026 Ivy League Acceptance Rates
Acceptance rates for colleges Ivy League are famously low, reflecting their immense selectivity. In 2026, these rates are expected to remain among the lowest in the world. For example, Harvard had an acceptance rate of around 3.2% in 2025, and Princeton was similarly competitive at 3.8%. Cornell, historically the most accessible Ivy, admitted about 10% of applicants in recent years.
This selectivity is driven by both the schools' reputations and the increasing number of applications. In 2025, Harvard received over 60,000 applications, while Columbia saw more than 57,000. Such numbers highlight the demand for spots in these prestigious institutions.
To stand out, applicants need more than just high GPAs and test scores. Schools evaluate essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities to identify students who align with their values and culture. Early decision and legacy status can slightly improve odds, but the competition remains fierce.
Fun Facts and Little-Known Secrets About the Ivy League
The Ivy League is full of fascinating history and quirky traditions that go beyond academics. Here are some lesser-known facts about these iconic schools:
- The Skull and Bones Society at Yale is shrouded in mystery, but did you know it included Ivy League students such as multiple U.S. presidents, Supreme Court justices, and global leaders? The society's headquarters, called "The Tomb," is one of the most mysterious buildings on campus.
- Dartmouth College is a surprising incubator for Hollywood talent. Alumni include Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel) and Shonda Rhimes, the creator of Grey's Anatomy and Bridgerton. The college also inspired parts of Animal House, based on a Dartmouth fraternity.
- Unlike other Ivy League schools with conventional mascots, Cornell's Big Red is represented by a bear, although its unofficial mascot is a dog named Touchdown.
- Princeton University has a unique claim to fame in pop culture: it inspired the fictional setting of Hogwarts in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter. The collegiate gothic architecture and ivy-covered halls were reportedly part of her inspiration during a visit.
- Beneath Widener Library at Harvard lies a secret tunnel system connecting the library to other campus buildings. It was built to protect valuable books during emergencies, such as fires or floods.
- In 1891, Brown University became one of the first institutions to officially admit women into its undergraduate program through its affiliated Pembroke College.
Should You Apply to an Ivy League School?
There’s no denying the perks of applying to Ivy League colleges - top-tier education, access to renowned professors, and amazing networking opportunities. Graduating from an Ivy League school can open doors to prestigious careers and elite graduate programs.
However, Ivy League unis aren’t for everyone. These schools are highly demanding, and the pressure can be overwhelming for some students.
It’s also important to consider the culture of each school. For instance, Harvard encourages intellectual curiosity, while Dartmouth focuses on a close-knit, community-driven experience. If you thrive in a competitive setting and want to make an impact, an Ivy League education could be life-changing.
But if affordability or smaller class sizes matter more to you, Public Ivies or Hidden Ivies could be a better fit. Remember, your success depends not just on where you study, but on how you make the most of your education and experiences.
In the end, apply to Ivy League schools if they match your ambitions - but don’t forget about the other amazing opportunities at other top schools!
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Ryan Acton is an essay-writing expert with a Ph.D. in Sociology, specializing in sociological research and historical analysis. By partnering with EssayHub, he provides comprehensive support to students, helping them craft well-informed essays across a variety of topics.
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- Quora. (n.d.). What Makes Ivy League Degrees So Valuable. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2024/02/10/what-makes-ivy-league-degrees-so-valuable/
- Best Universities and Colleges | Payscale. (2018). PayScale. https://www.payscale.com/college-salary-report/bachelors
- Public Ivies, Ivy Plus, Little Ivies – Terms Explained | Aralia. (2024, August 14). Aralia Education. https://www.aralia.com/helpful-information/public-ivies-ivy-plus-little-ivies/
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