The Ultimate Guide to Ivy League Schools

The Ivy League Schools: What to Know

While these schools share the Ivy League designation and stand out for their high academic standards, each possesses unique qualities, cultures, and locations for prospective students to consider when making their decisions.

Brown University

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island
• Founded: 1764

Known for its open curriculum, which allows students to design their own academic path, Brown promotes a learning environment where students explore and engage in diverse interests. Its diverse community, undergraduate research opportunities, and collaborations are some highlights.

Columbia University

• Location: New York City, New York
• Founded: 1754

Situated in the heart of Manhattan, Columbia offers rigorous academic programs and a core curriculum that ensures a broad-based education. Its location gives students unparalleled access to internships, cultural experiences, and more.

Cornell University

• Location: Ithaca, New York
• Founded: 1865

Located in upstate New York, Cornell combines rigorous academic programs with a commitment to public engagement. It boasts relatively more diverse academic programs than other Ivy League schools, from hotel administration to various engineering disciplines.

Dartmouth College

• Location: Hanover, New Hampshire
• Founded: 1769

The smallest in the Ivy League, Dartmouth is known for its tight-knit community and emphasis on undergraduate education. The D-Plan, a unique quarter system (versus the standard semester system), offers students greater flexibility in their studies.

Harvard University

• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Founded: 1636

The oldest institution of higher education in the U.S., Harvard is renowned globally for its influence, rigorous academic programs, extensive library system, and emphasis on research. It is arguably the most well-renowned university worldwide.

University of Pennsylvania (Penn)

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Founded: 1740

Founded by Benjamin Franklin, Penn is recognized for integrating liberal arts and professional education. The Wharton School, Penn’s business school, is particularly renowned and often ranks as the highest-rated undergraduate business school in the United States.

Princeton University

• Location: Princeton, New Jersey
• Founded: 1746

Princeton is known for its commitment to undergraduate education, a strong emphasis on independent research, and a generous financial aid program. Students engage in independent projects, culminating in a senior thesis.

Yale University

• Location: New Haven, Connecticut
• Founded: 1701

With its vast library system, diverse academic programs, and focus on research and global initiatives, Yale is committed to enriching the intellectual lives of its students. The residential college system fosters a strong sense of community.

Non-Ivy League Schools

Of course, other non-Ivy schools like MIT, Duke, and Stanford are equally reputable to the schools listed above and absolutely worth your consideration. While the Ivy League schools carry a strong brand name, students should ultimately pick the school best aligned with their goals and interests.