What Are Ivy League Schools? Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to prestigious education in the United States, Ivy League universities often top the list. But what exactly are Ivy League schools? Why are they so famous, and how do they compare to other top universities in the U.S.? Let’s break it down.

What Is the Ivy League?

The Ivy League is a group of 8 private research universities in the United States, known for their academic excellence, long-standing traditions, and influential alumni. But interestingly, the term “Ivy League” didn’t start with academics—it started with sports!

How Did the Ivy League Get Its Name?

The Ivy League was officially formed in the 1950s, originally as an athletic conference for college football. The presidents of these universities signed what’s called the Ivy Group Agreement to establish standards for their sports programs. Over time, the term evolved beyond athletics and became associated with elite education and academic prestige.

How to Apply to an Ivy League University

Getting into an Ivy League school is extremely competitive. While each university has its own admission criteria, here’s what you generally need to stand out:

• A stellar GPA and top SAT/ACT scores
• Strong extracurricular involvement (clubs, sports, arts, etc.)
• Volunteering or community service
• Letters of recommendation
• A well-crafted personal statement or essay
• Possibly an interview, depending on the school

Most successful applicants have GPAs ranging from 3.85 to 4.18, but don’t be discouraged—admissions committees also look at your leadership skills, personal background, and how you contribute to your community.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Ivy League Schools

Being private institutions, Ivy League universities come with a higher price tag. On average, tuition alone can cost around USD $56,000 per year, excluding living expenses, which vary by city. For instance, costs are typically higher in places like Boston or New York City.

However, these schools offer generous scholarship and financial aid packages, especially need-based and merit-based awards. The good news? Many Ivy League schools meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, even for international students.

Ivy League vs Other U.S. Universities

There’s no doubt Ivy League schools are world-renowned, but they’re not the only elite institutions in the U.S.

Universities like:

• Stanford University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• University of California, Berkeley

…also rank among the top globally and offer outstanding education and research opportunities.

So, when choosing a university, focus on what aligns with your goals and not just reputation.

The 8 Ivy League Schools (with Quick Facts)

1. Brown University

Rhode Island
2022 US News Rank: #14
2023 QS Rank: #63
Known for its open curriculum, Brown encourages students to design their own academic paths. Creativity, innovation, and academic freedom are core to its culture.

2. Columbia University

New York City
2023 QS Rank: #22
Located in Manhattan, Columbia boasts the third-largest university library in the U.S. It offers flexible academic options and the chance to study in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

3. Cornell University

Ithaca, New York (plus campuses in NYC and Qatar)
2022 US News Rank: #17
2023 QS Rank: #20
Founded in 1865, Cornell is the youngest Ivy and the most diverse in programs and student population. It offers unique programs, including the largest Southeast Asia studies department in the U.S.

4. Dartmouth College

New Hampshire
2022 US News Rank: #13
2023 QS Rank: #205
A small liberal arts college with a tight-knit community. Known for small class sizes and a strong focus on undergraduate teaching, especially in politics and economics.

5. Harvard University

Boston, Massachusetts
2022 US News Rank: #2
2023 QS Rank: #5
Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest and most prestigious university in the U.S. It offers world-class programs and a vast library system—the oldest in the country.

6. Princeton University

New Jersey
2022 US News Rank: #1
2023 QS Rank: #16
Famous for rigorous academics and a low student-to-faculty ratio. Most students live on campus, and the university provides strong support for academic success.

7. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2022 US News Rank: #8
2023 QS Rank: #13
A pioneer in interdisciplinary learning, UPenn lets undergraduates explore courses across departments, including graduate-level options. Its Wharton School of Business is world-renowned.

8. Yale University

Connecticut
2022 US News Rank: #5
2023 QS Rank: #18
Founded in 1701, Yale is known for its Oxford-Cambridge-inspired residential colleges. It has the second-largest academic library in the U.S. and offers a rich campus experience rooted in tradition.

Ivy League schools are prestigious for a reason—they offer top-tier education, strong alumni networks, and global recognition. But they’re not the only route to academic and career success.

At Kampus Group, we’re here to help you find the right university for your goals, whether it’s an Ivy League school or another top institution in the U.S.

Need Help Applying?

Whether you’re just exploring options or already preparing your application, book a free session with one of our overseas education consultants. We’ll guide you through selecting the best-fit school, preparing documents, and increasing your chances of admission