The Ivy League schools are often considered the pinnacle of American higher education. However, there are numerous other institutions that offer top-notch academics, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities. This article aims to shed light on some of the best non-Ivy League schools in the United States, focusing on key metrics like location, acceptance rate, test scores, and undergraduate enrollment.
1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Location: Pasadena, CA
Acceptance rate: 7%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1530-1580 SAT, 35-36 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 900
School Summary:
Caltech is a paradise for students who are passionate about science and technology. With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 3:1, the school offers an intimate, collaborative educational experience. Caltech is renowned for its research in fields like quantum computing, environmental science, and bioengineering. The school’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, managed for NASA, offers unparalleled research opportunities in space science. Caltech’s faculty includes numerous Nobel laureates and Fields Medalists, such as Kip Thorne and John Preskill, making it a hub for groundbreaking research. The school’s “Honor Code” is a unique feature that allows for a flexible examination system and fosters a culture of trust. With its rigorous curriculum and a focus on innovation, Caltech prepares students to be leaders in scientific and technological advances.
2. University of Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL
Acceptance rate: 7%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1510-1580 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 8,300
School Summary:
The University of Chicago is not just an institution but a culture of intellectual curiosity and rigorous debate. Located in the vibrant city of Chicago, the university offers a rich tapestry of arts, culture, and science. It is home to some of the world’s leading scholars in economics, law, and public policy, including Nobel laureates like Richard Thaler. The university’s Core Curriculum ensures that students receive a well-rounded, liberal arts education. The school is also known for its unique essay prompts, which challenge students to think outside the box. The Regenstein Library, one of the largest repositories of ancient manuscripts, is a treasure trove for researchers. With its multidisciplinary approach and a strong emphasis on research, the University of Chicago offers an unparalleled educational experience.
3. Duke University
Location: Durham, NC
Acceptance rate: 9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1460-1550 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 7,000
School Summary:
Duke University is a synthesis of academic excellence and vibrant campus life. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is known for its strong programs in law, business, and medicine. The university’s unique Program II allows students to design their own interdisciplinary major, offering unparalleled academic flexibility. Duke’s faculty includes some of the leading names in biomedical engineering, public policy, and environmental science. The campus is home to the Nasher Museum of Art and the famous Cameron Indoor Stadium, making it a hub for both cultural and athletic activities. The university’s commitment to research is evident from its extensive lab facilities and the Duke University Medical Center, one of the leading medical research institutions in the world. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong focus on research and community service, Duke provides a holistic educational experience.
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Location: Cambridge, MA
Acceptance rate: 4%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1510-1580 SAT, 34-36 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 4,500
School Summary:
MIT is more than just a tech school; it’s a breeding ground for innovators and entrepreneurs. Located in the intellectual hub of Cambridge, MIT offers a wide range of programs, not just in science and technology, but also in fields like economics, linguistics, and even theater arts. The institute is known for its hands-on approach to learning, with numerous labs and workshops that encourage practical application of theoretical knowledge. MIT’s faculty includes luminaries like Noam Chomsky in linguistics and Daron Acemoglu in economics. The school’s Media Lab, a research lab that focuses on the intersection of technology, multimedia, sciences, art, and design, is one of its kind and offers students the opportunity to work on real-world projects that have societal impact. With its culture of collaboration and innovation, MIT stands as a monument to human ingenuity.
5. Rice University
Location: Houston, Texas
Acceptance rate: 9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1570 SAT, 34-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 4,300
School Summary:
Rice University, located in the heart of Houston, Texas, is a smaller research university that packs a punch. Known for its engineering, music, and architecture programs, Rice offers a diverse range of academic disciplines. The school’s George R. Brown School of Engineering is particularly renowned for its research in materials science and nanoengineering. Rice’s Shepherd School of Music is one of the top music schools in the country, with state-of-the-art facilities like the Brockman Hall for Opera. The university’s unique residential college system fosters a strong sense of community and offers a supportive environment for academic and personal growth. With a faculty that includes Pulitzer Prize winners and National Medal of Science recipients, Rice offers an intimate yet rigorous academic experience.
6. Vanderbilt University
Location: Nashville, TN
Acceptance rate: 7%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1570 SAT, 34-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 7,200
School Summary:
Vanderbilt University, located in the music city of Nashville, Tennessee, is a center for scholarly research, informed and creative teaching, and service to the community and society at large. Known for its top-ranked programs in education and human development, law, and medicine, Vanderbilt also boasts a strong school of engineering. The university is home to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, one of the nation’s top academic medical centers. The Peabody College of Education and Human Development has been consistently ranked among the top schools of education by U.S. News & World Report. The campus is an arboretum, making it one of the greenest campuses in the U.S. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, Vanderbilt offers a personalized and rigorous academic experience.
7. Northwestern University
Location: Evanston, IL
Acceptance rate: 8%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1470-1570 SAT, 34-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 9,900
School Summary:
Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois, is a comprehensive research university that is deeply interdisciplinary across multiple schools and units. The university is particularly known for its School of Communication, Medill School of Journalism, and the Kellogg School of Management. Northwestern’s faculty includes Pulitzer Prize winners, MacArthur Genius Grant fellows, and members of national academies. The university’s strong emphasis on research is supported by state-of-the-art labs and research centers like the Northwestern Institute on Complex Systems (NICO). Northwestern also offers a wide range of study abroad programs, allowing students to gain a global perspective on their studies. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong focus on research, Northwestern provides a holistic educational experience.
8. Williams College
Location: Williamstown, MA
Acceptance rate: 9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1560 SAT, 32-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 2,000
School Summary:
Williams College, located in the scenic Berkshires in western Massachusetts, is the epitome of a small liberal arts college. The college is known for its student-faculty tutorials, modeled after the system at Oxford University, where students meet individually or in pairs with professors. Williams offers a wide range of majors and degrees in humanities, sciences, social sciences, and the arts. The college is home to the Williams College Museum of Art, which has an impressive collection of American art. With a strong emphasis on community, the college has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, allowing for personalized attention. Williams College provides an intimate, community-focused educational experience that prepares students for a wide range of careers.
9. Pomona College
Location: Claremont, CA
Acceptance rate: 7%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1470-1570 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 1,500
School Summary:
Pomona College, part of the Claremont Colleges, is a liberal arts college that offers a comprehensive curriculum in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college is known for its small class sizes, with over 50% of its classes having fewer than 20 students. Pomona offers a unique “Critical Inquiry” course for first-year students, focusing on the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. The college is home to the Pomona College Museum of Art, which has an extensive collection of American and Native American art. With a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on original research projects. Pomona College offers an intimate, academically rigorous environment where students can explore a wide range of disciplines.
10. University of Michigan
Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Acceptance rate: 23%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1340-1530 SAT, 31-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 30,318
School Summary:
The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is one of the original Public Ivies and offers a high-quality education comparable to that of an Ivy League institution. Known for its research output, the university has high-ranking engineering, business, and medical schools. The Ross School of Business is particularly well-regarded and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in business and management. The university is also home to the Michigan Wolverines, offering a vibrant sports culture. With more than 1,600 student organizations, students at Michigan have an array of options for extracurricular involvement. The university’s faculty includes Pulitzer Prize winners, Guggenheim Fellows, and members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong focus on research, the University of Michigan provides a comprehensive educational experience.
11. Georgetown University
Location: Washington, D.C.
Acceptance rate: 14%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1370-1530 SAT, 31-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 7,463
School Summary:
Georgetown University, located in the nation’s capital, is a leader in fields like international relations, law, and public policy. The Walsh School of Foreign Service is one of the premier schools of international relations in the world. Georgetown’s location offers students unparalleled access to government institutions, NGOs, and international organizations. The faculty includes former diplomats, policy makers, and experts in various fields, providing real-world insights into the curriculum. The university also offers a unique “Philodemic Society,” one of the oldest collegiate debating societies in the United States. With its Jesuit heritage, Georgetown places a strong emphasis on ethics and social justice, preparing students to be leaders committed to making a difference.
12. Swarthmore College
Location: Swarthmore, PA
Acceptance rate: 9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1380-1530 SAT, 31-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 1,559
School Summary:
Swarthmore College is a small liberal arts college with a big reputation. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice, Swarthmore offers a diverse range of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college is part of the Tri-College Consortium, allowing students to also take courses at Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges. Swarthmore’s Honors Program is modeled after the tutorial system at Oxford, offering students an intensive academic experience. The college is also home to the Scott Arboretum, providing a beautiful setting for study and relaxation. With a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, Swarthmore offers an intimate and challenging academic environment.
13. Carnegie Mellon University
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Acceptance rate: 15%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1450-1550 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 6,589
School Summary:
Carnegie Mellon University is a global research university known for its programs in engineering, computer science, and arts. The School of Computer Science is one of the best in the world, and the Tepper School of Business is highly regarded for its focus on leadership and entrepreneurship. Carnegie Mellon is also home to the renowned College of Fine Arts, offering programs in design, drama, and music. The faculty includes Turing Award winners, Tony Award winners, and members of various national academies. The university’s strong focus on interdisciplinary research is evident in its various institutes like the Robotics Institute and the Software Engineering Institute. With its blend of technical and artistic disciplines, Carnegie Mellon offers a unique, well-rounded education.
14. University of Notre Dame
Location: Notre Dame, IN
Acceptance rate: 16%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1400-1550 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 8,617
School Summary:
The University of Notre Dame is a Catholic research university known for its strong programs in business, law, and engineering. The Mendoza College of Business has been consistently ranked among the top business schools in the U.S. Notre Dame’s strong Catholic identity informs its emphasis on ethics, social justice, and community service. The university is also known for its vibrant athletic culture, particularly its football team, the Fighting Irish. With more than 400 student clubs and organizations, Notre Dame offers a rich extracurricular life. The faculty includes leading scholars, researchers, and writers, providing a rigorous and comprehensive academic experience.
15. University of California, Berkeley
Location: Berkeley, CA
Acceptance rate: 16%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1330-1530 SAT, 29-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 31,780
School Summary:
The University of California, Berkeley, often simply called Cal, is a public research university with a reputation for academic excellence and radical social activism. Known for its top-ranked College of Engineering and Haas School of Business, Berkeley is also strong in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The faculty includes numerous Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur “Genius” Fellows. The university’s location in the San Francisco Bay Area provides students with access to a vibrant cultural scene and a hub of technological innovation. With its diverse student body and a strong emphasis on research, Berkeley offers a comprehensive, world-class education.
16. University of Virginia (UVA)
Location: Charlottesville, VA
Acceptance rate: 23%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1330-1500 SAT, 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 16,777
School Summary:
The University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, is steeped in history and tradition but also forward-looking with its research and academic programs. Known for its School of Law and Darden School of Business, UVA also has strong programs in architecture, engineering, and liberal arts. The faculty includes Pulitzer Prize winners and members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. The university’s Jeffersonian architecture and the Rotunda are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, adding to the unique atmosphere of the campus. With its Honor Code and student-run organizations, UVA fosters a strong sense of community and leadership among its students.
17. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Acceptance rate: 12%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1330-1510 SAT, 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 31,543
School Summary:
UCLA is a public research university located in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Known for its strong programs in arts and humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, UCLA also has a top-ranked School of Medicine and School of Law. The faculty includes Nobel laureates, Guggenheim Fellows, and MacArthur “Genius” Fellows. The university’s location offers students a plethora of cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities. With its diverse student body and a strong emphasis on research, UCLA offers a comprehensive, world-class education.
18. Amherst College
Location: Amherst, MA
Acceptance rate: 11%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1420-1530 SAT, 31-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 1,855
School Summary:
Amherst College is a small liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice. With its open curriculum, students have the freedom to explore a wide range of disciplines. Amherst is part of the Five College Consortium, allowing students to take courses at nearby institutions like Smith College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The college has a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, offering numerous fellowships and grants for student projects. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, Amherst offers an intimate and challenging academic environment.
19. Dartmouth College
Location: Hanover, NH
Acceptance rate: 7.9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1440-1560 SAT, 32-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 4,417
School Summary:
Dartmouth College, although part of the Ivy League, often feels more like a small liberal arts college. Known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and medicine, Dartmouth also offers a wide range of courses in the humanities and social sciences. The faculty includes Pulitzer Prize winners, Guggenheim Fellows, and members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. The college’s location in rural New Hampshire offers a unique setting for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. With its D-Plan, a flexible, year-round academic calendar, Dartmouth offers students the opportunity to design their own academic journey.
20. University of Southern California (USC)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Acceptance rate: 11%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1400-1530 SAT, 31-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 19,170
School Summary:
The University of Southern California is a private research university known for its programs in business, law, cinema, engineering, arts and sciences, and other fields. The USC School of Cinematic Arts has been a leader in film and television production education for over 90 years. The faculty includes Academy Award winners, best-selling authors, and renowned scientists. USC’s location in Los Angeles offers students a plethora of cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities. With its diverse student body and a strong emphasis on research, USC offers a comprehensive, world-class education.
21. Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)
Location: St. Louis, MO
Acceptance rate: 14%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1470-1570 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 7,822
School Summary:
Washington University in St. Louis, commonly known as WashU, is a private research university with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Known for its top-ranked medical school and architecture programs, WashU also excels in arts and sciences, business, and engineering. The faculty includes Pulitzer Prize winners, Nobel laureates, and other distinguished scholars. The university’s location in St. Louis offers students a range of cultural and professional opportunities, including partnerships with medical centers and tech startups. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong focus on research, WashU provides a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.
22. Cornell University
Location: Ithaca, NY
Acceptance rate: 10.6%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1400-1560 SAT, 32-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 15,182
School Summary:
Cornell University, although an Ivy League, offers a public school experience through its state-funded colleges. Known for its strong programs in hotel management, veterinary sciences, and engineering, Cornell also offers a wide range of courses in the humanities and social sciences. The faculty includes Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and National Medal of Science recipients. The university’s location in Ithaca offers a scenic setting for study and recreation. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong emphasis on research, Cornell offers a comprehensive, world-class education.
23. Harvey Mudd College
Location: Claremont, CA
Acceptance rate: 13.5%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1560 SAT, 34-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 902
School Summary:
Harvey Mudd College is a small liberal arts college focused on engineering, science, and mathematics. Part of the Claremont Colleges, Harvey Mudd offers a collaborative academic environment. The college is known for its rigorous curriculum, hands-on research opportunities, and a senior capstone project that often results in publishable research. The faculty includes leading researchers in fields like computer science, engineering, and physics. With its strong emphasis on problem-solving and innovation, Harvey Mudd prepares students to be leaders in STEM fields.
24. Brown University
Location: Providence, RI
Acceptance rate: 6.9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1440-1570 SAT, 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 7,160
School Summary:
Brown University, another Ivy League institution, is known for its flexible curriculum that encourages interdisciplinary learning. With its “Open Curriculum,” students have the freedom to design their own course of study. Brown offers strong programs in cognitive science, computer science, and public health. The faculty includes Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and other distinguished scholars. The university’s location in Providence offers a vibrant cultural scene and a range of professional opportunities. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong emphasis on research, Brown offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.
25. New York University (NYU)
Location: New York, NY
Acceptance rate: 16%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1350-1530 SAT, 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate enrollment: 26,417
School Summary:
New York University is a private research university located in the heart of Manhattan. Known for its strong programs in law, business, and arts, NYU offers a wide range of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The Tisch School of the Arts is one of the premier arts schools in the country. The faculty includes Academy Award winners, Nobel laureates, and other distinguished scholars. NYU’s location offers students unparalleled access to a range of cultural and professional opportunities. With its diverse academic offerings and a strong emphasis on research, NYU provides a comprehensive, world-class education.
Choosing the right college is a monumental decision, one that can shape your academic journey and future career. While Ivy League schools often steal the spotlight, this list proves that exceptional education isn’t confined to the Ivy walls. From the interdisciplinary rigor of Washington University in St. Louis to the cinematic brilliance fostered at NYU, these institutions offer diverse, world-class education. Whether you’re drawn to the liberal arts intimacy of Amherst College or the research prowess of UCLA, each school on this list offers a unique blend of opportunities for intellectual growth, research, and community engagement. In a world that values diverse skill sets and perspectives, these Non-Ivy League schools stand as pillars of academic excellence and holistic development.
