After much research, we have considered various factors and created a list ranking the Ivy Leagues.
Year after year, these institutions are ranked among the best universities in the world, attracting top students and faculty members from around the globe. But which one is the best? Let’s find out.
Disclaimer: The rankings and opinions presented in this article are based on research and various sources. Note that rankings and opinions can differ depending on personal preferences, experiences, and other factors. Additionally, all Ivy League schools are equally prestigious and renowned, and this article does not intend to discredit or diminish any university’s accomplishments or reputation. Rankings are based on specific categories. While some schools may rank higher in certain areas, each Ivy League institution is a leader in academic excellence and offers unparalleled opportunities for students.
What Are The Ivy Leagues?
The Ivy League is a group of eight highly prestigious universities in the Northeastern United States, known for their academic excellence, rich history, and selective admissions processes.
Their history is incredible, and to learn more about them, check out my article about what are the Ivy Leagues.
Factors Considered When Ranking
Whether you’re a high school student considering applying to one of these institutions, a current Ivy League student, or simply interested in learning more about these prestigious schools, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of each university’s strengths and achievements.
Take a look at the factors this article will consider when ranking the Ivy Leagues:
Athletics
The athletics program is an essential part of the college experience for many students. Ivy League schools have strong athletics programs and compete at the NCAA’s highest level in Division I.
Campus
The campus is an integral part of the college experience. Ivy League schools have beautiful campuses, and they offer a variety of amenities and activities for students to enjoy.
Diversity
Diversity is essential for many students when choosing a college. Ivy League schools are becoming more diverse but still lag behind other types of schools regarding racial and ethnic diversity.
Dorms
All Ivy League schools have dorms, but some may be more appealing than others. We will assess the size, types of dorms available, and overall living quality.
Food
When selecting an Ivy League school, consider the food. Though all Ivy League schools have dining halls, the food quality may vary between them.
Location: Certain Ivy League schools can be found in urban areas, while others are situated in more rural regions. Though this is solely based on preference, being near the city allows for more travel and access to stores, grocery shops, and more.
Party Scene
The party scene can be a significant consideration when choosing an Ivy League school. Some schools are known for having a more active social scene than others, with plenty of parties, events, and opportunities to socialize with fellow students. If you’re looking for a lively college experience, it’s worth researching to find the right school for you.
Professors
The quality of the professors at an Ivy League school can significantly impact your education and career prospects. While all Ivy League schools have excellent faculty members, some may be more renowned than others. Choosing a school with professors who are experts in your field of interest can provide you with a competitive advantage and help you make the most of your time at college.
Safety
Safety is a top priority for any college student, and Ivy League schools are known for their commitment to maintaining a secure campus environment. While all schools have safety measures, some may be considered safer than others. Crime rates, campus security, and emergency response protocols can all contribute to a school’s safety rating.
Student Life
Student life at an Ivy League school should be considered for students who want to balance academics with social and extracurricular activities. While all Ivy League schools have a vibrant campus culture, some may offer more opportunities for students to get involved in clubs, organizations, and events.
Value
While Ivy League schools are undeniably expensive, the value of a degree from one of these prestigious institutions can be immeasurable. Graduates of Ivy League schools are highly sought after by employers, and the alumni network can provide valuable connections throughout your career.
Ranking The Ivy Leagues
8. Princeton University
Princeton University is a prestigious private research university in Princeton, New Jersey, USA. It was founded in 1746 and is one of the eight Ivy League universities.
Furthermore, the university has a long history of academic excellence, with renowned faculty members and a rigorous curriculum emphasizing research and critical thinking.
Princeton is home to a diverse community of students from around the world. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
Moreover, the university’s beautiful campus spans over 500 acres and features a range of facilities, including libraries, research centers, art galleries, and sports facilities.
Overall, Princeton University is widely recognized as one of the top universities in the world and is a highly sought-after destination for students and scholars alike.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
7. Cornell University
Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is a private Ivy League institution known for its exceptional academic programs and commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship.
The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide range of fields, including engineering, business, agriculture, and more.
Cornell is particularly renowned for its programs in engineering and business, and employers in these fields highly seek after its graduates. The university also has a strong commitment to research, with faculty and students engaged in cutting-edge research programs across a wide range of disciplines.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Campus Food
- Diversity
- Professors
- Value
6. Brown University
Brown University, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a private Ivy League institution known for its exceptional academic programs and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity on its campus.
The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide range of fields, including the arts, sciences, humanities, and more.
Brown is particularly renowned for its programs in the arts and humanities, and its graduates are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools alike.
The university also has a solid commitment to research, with faculty and students engaged in cutting-edge research programs across a wide range of disciplines.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Location
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
5. University Of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a private Ivy League institution known for its exceptional academic programs and strong commitment to research.
Founded in 1740, Penn offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, law, engineering, medicine, and more.
The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business and finance, and employers in these fields highly seek after its graduates.
Penn is also known for its cutting-edge research programs, with faculty and students engaged in research across a wide range of disciplines.
In addition to its academic excellence, Penn is also known for its vibrant student life. The university offers a variety of clubs and organizations, including athletic teams, cultural groups, and student government.
The university is also home to various student-run publications and arts organizations, providing students with ample opportunities to get involved and pursue their passions outside of the classroom.
Overall, with its exceptional academics and vibrant student life, the University of Pennsylvania offers students an unparalleled undergraduate experience.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Location
- Party Scene
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
4. Dartmouth College
Dartmouth College is a private Ivy League institution in Hanover, New Hampshire. Founded in 1769, Dartmouth is one of the oldest colleges in the United States.
The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including the arts, sciences, humanities, engineering, and more. Dartmouth is known for its exceptional academic programs, and its graduates are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools alike.
In addition to its academic excellence, Dartmouth is also known for its vibrant student life. The college offers a variety of clubs and organizations, including athletic teams, cultural groups, and student government.
The college is also home to various student-run publications and arts organizations, providing students with ample opportunities to get involved and pursue their passions outside of the classroom.
Thanks to Dartmouth’s location, it offers students access to various outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and other outdoor pursuits. With its exceptional academics and vibrant student life, Dartmouth College offers students an unparalleled undergraduate experience.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
3. Harvard University
Harvard University is a world-renowned institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636, it is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States.
Overall, Harvard is known for its exceptional academic programs and rigorous curriculum that prepares students for success in various fields. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, engineering, and more.
Harvard is consistently ranked among the best universities in the world, and its graduates are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools alike.
Moreover, Harvard offers various programs and initiatives to promote equity and inclusion, including the Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging, which provides resources and support to students, faculty, and staff.
The university is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, with various programs and initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmental stewardship.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Location
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
2. Columbia University
Columbia University is a renowned institution located in New York City. It is known for its exceptional academic programs, diverse student body, exceptional professors, and vibrant student life.
The university is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world for academics, with a rigorous curriculum and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Additionally, Columbia is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity on its campus, with a diverse student body and various initiatives and programs to promote equity and inclusion.
The university’s location in the heart of Manhattan gives students access to a wealth of cultural and professional opportunities. Columbia’s faculty members are highly respected scholars in their respective fields, known for their dedication to teaching and research.
The campus has student activities and numerous clubs, organizations, and events. Despite its reputation for excellence, Columbia remains committed to providing need-based financial aid to all students, ensuring that it remains accessible to students from all backgrounds.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Location
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
1. Yale University
Yale University is a top-ranked institution of higher learning located in New Haven, Connecticut. So it is no surprise that when ranking the Ivy Leagues, Yale comes out on top.
Yale is recognized as one of the best universities in the world for academics. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, law, medicine, and engineering.
Moreover, the university has a highly selective admissions process, admitting only the most academically gifted students. Yale’s residential colleges provide some of the best dormitory accommodations in the country. Each residential college has modern amenities, creating community and camaraderie among students.
While Yale is known for its academic rigor, it also offers a lively social scene. The campus hosts numerous social events and activities, including parties, concerts, and cultural events.
Yale’s faculty members are highly respected scholars in their respective fields. They are known for their dedication to teaching and research and their commitment to their student’s success. Yale’s professors have won prestigious awards, including Nobel Prizes, MacArthur Fellowships, and Pulitzer Prizes.
Furthermore, Yale’s campus is alive with student activity. It offers various student services and resources, including academic advising, career counseling, and wellness services. There is also a thriving arts and culture scene, with performances, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.
Best ranked in the following categories:
- Academics
- Diversity
- Dorms
- Party Scene
- Professors
- Student Life
- Value
Final Thoughts
Ranking the Ivy League universities is a common practice, and it is easy to see why they consistently come out on top. Especially since these prestigious higher education institutions have a long and storied history of academic excellence, innovation, and research.
They boast some of the world’s top faculty members and offer a rigorous curriculum emphasizing critical thinking and independent research. Regardless of which you attend, Ivy League universities will provide you with an exceptional educational experience that will help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
In addition to their top-notch resources and facilities, their diverse student communities are among the many reasons why Ivy League universities consistently rank among the world’s top institutions of higher learning.
