What are the Ivy League schools? A Complete Guide to list and rankings

Your Ivy League Dream Begins Here — With OpenAdmits

For as far back as anyone can remember, the Ivy League has represented the best of the best—a jumping-off point for the brightest minds that are leading the way in business, politics, science, and the arts. But what makes them so prestigious? And more importantly—how do you become a part of it?

If you have ever asked yourself what it takes to get into an Ivy League university, you've found the right place. This guide takes you from the origins of the Ivies to what actually distinguishes a successful application—and how Green Card Inc. can assist you in getting there.

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1. What is the Ivy League?

The Ivy League isn't merely a group of elite colleges—it's tradition. These eight private northeastern United States colleges have been churning out world leaders, game changers, and Nobel winners for more than a century. Originally established as an athletic conference, the term "Ivy League" has come to signify academic excellence and unprecedented opportunity.

Must read: Understanding Ivy League Meaning, History, and Global Reputation

2. Learn about the Eight Ivies

Each school is unique and has strengths of its own, but they are all distinguished for academic excellence and intellectual challenge:

• Harvard University – Cambridge, MA
• Yale University – New Haven, CT
• Princeton University – Princeton, NJ
• Columbia University – New York City, NY
• University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) – Philadelphia, PA
• Brown University – Providence, RI
• Dartmouth College – Hanover, NH
• Cornell University – Ithaca, NY

These are the institutions that produce presidents, Pulitzer recipients, and trailblazers. The Ivy League is where tradition and ambition collide.

Check a detailed guide: List of Ivy League Schools Ranked by Acceptance Rates (2025)

3. 2025 Ivy League Rankings

Rankings change, but greatness does not. Here's a quick breakdown of how they're doing this year:

• Princeton – STEM, Economics, Public Policy
• Harvard – Law, Business, Medicine
• Yale – Law, Humanities, Arts
• UPenn – Business (Wharton), Medicine
• Columbia – Journalism, Global Studies
• Brown – Liberal Arts, Open Curriculum
• Dartmouth – Liberal Arts Education, Liberal Arts Focus
• Cornell – Hotel Administration, Engineering, Agriculture

Related article: Ultimate Guide to Ivy League Schools: Admissions, Acceptance Rates & Deadlines

4. But Wait… Is Stanford Ivy League? MIT? Oxford?

Nope. Only those eight American institutions mentioned above are part of the Ivy League.

If you’ve ever confused these with Ivy League, pause and ask:

What are the Ivy League schools?

That doesn't mean, however, that institutions such as Stanford, MIT, and Oxford aren't equally as prestigious—just not within this particular group.

5. How Do You Even Get In?

It's difficult—but not impossible. Ivy League admissions range from 3% to 9%. So what distinguishes accepted students? Here's what truly counts:

5.1 Academic Accomplishment:

• GPA close to perfection (see 3.9+)
• Advanced courses (AP, IB, Honors)
• Academic enthusiasm beyond grades

5.2 Sound Test Scores:

• SAT 1450+ / ACT 32+
• Even test-optional institutions appreciate excellent scores—they reflect discipline

5.3 Extracurricular Distinction:

• Don't join them all—lead the ones you love
• Initiate a project, volunteer, create something that matters

5.4 Sincere Essays:

• This is your time to shine. Share your story.
• What are you uniquely? Don't be afraid to be vulnerable, to be passionate, to be different.

5.5 Powerful Recommendations:

A good letter from someone who knows your journey can tip the scales in your favor.

6. Things to Avoid

• Cliched essays – Admissions officers can see cliches coming a mile away
• Overstuffed resumes – Go for depth, not breadth
• Not wanting the school thing – Each Ivy is unique. Research heavily.
• Tarrying too long – Apply early for improved prospects

7. What does an Ivy-Ready Student look like?

Don't just think about grades. Ivy League universities need learners who think intensely, lead emphatically, and care passionately.

• Aces in the classroom and on tests
• Leadership positions (clubs, projects, startups)
• Passion projects (research, volunteer work, advocacy)
• Worldly perspective (language, travel, internships)
• Character (grit, curiosity, empathy)

You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be truly you—and intentional about how you demonstrate that.

Important article: How to Build an Ivy League Profile: Academics, Leadership & Impact

8. Let Green Card Inc. Assist You in Achieving This

We've directed scores of students onto Ivy League success—and are here to assist you as well. You are in 9th grade mapping out your journey or are a senior completing your application, we scale our counsel to suit you wherever you find yourself.

• Customized Ivy Application Strategy
• Essay Brainstorming & Development
• Interview Confidence Building & Coaching
• Academic & Extracurricular Planning

This is not a college thing. It's about finding your voice, setting your future, and learning how to speak your truth that can't be silenced.

Ready to Reach Your Ivy League Aspiration?

We believe you're brave enough to dream it, you're skilled enough to do it.

Let's bring your dream to life for admission.

Take advantage of your FREE CALL with us now