List of Ivy League Schools 2025: Admissions, Scholarships & Careers

The Ivy League is a group of eight famous universities in the United States. These schools are known for quality academics, strong global rankings, and long-standing traditions. In 2025, their acceptance rates are very low, usually between 3 to 8 percent. 

The list of Ivy League universities includes Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth, the University of Pennsylvania, and Cornell. These schools are top-ranked and known for top programs in law, medicine, business, engineering, and more. Many graduates go on to become CEOs, researchers, world leaders, and award winners.

This guide will help you understand Ivy League schools. You’ll learn how to apply, what you need to get in, the types of scholarships available, career options after graduation, and how these schools compare with other top universities.

List of Ivy League Universities: Global Rankings 2025

Each Ivy League university has its own mix of strong academic programs, campus life, and long history.

Here's a closer look at all eight Ivy League schools and what makes each different from the other.

University Name	QS World Ranking 2026	Acceptance Rate 2025
Harvard University	5	3.5
University of Pennsylvania	15	5.4
Cornell University	16	8.2
Princeton University	25	4.5
Yale University	21	4.5
Columbia University	38	4.2
Brown University	69	5.2
Dartmouth College	247	6.2

Each of these institutions plays a significant role in shaping global leaders and driving research and innovation across a variety of disciplines.

Understanding the Ivy League: Key Facts & Features

To know if an Ivy League school is right for you, it’s important to understand what classes are like, what life is like on campus, and what students usually experience there.

Academic Excellence and Research Prowess

Ivy League universities are known for their intensive academic programs, cutting-edge research facilities, and interdisciplinary curriculum options.

• Students at Ivy League schools benefit from access to world-renowned professors, state-of-the-art laboratories, and extensive research funding. 
• The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and creative problem-solving. 
• Many students engage in undergraduate research, internships, and honors projects that contribute to scholarly advancements.

Student Life and Extracurricular Opportunities 

Beyond academics, Ivy League schools offer vibrant campus communities with a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, and traditions.

• From competitive athletics to debate clubs, theatrical productions, and student-run organizations, these universities foster holistic student development. 
• Ivy League campuses often host high-profile guest speakers, alumni events, and community initiatives that deepen the college experience and provide real-world engagement.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives 

In recent years, Ivy League schools have taken significant steps to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across their student and faculty populations.

• Many Ivies now have resource centers, support programs, and scholarships specifically designed to enhance representation among underrepresented groups. 
• These efforts are critical in fostering inclusive environments where students of all backgrounds feel empowered to succeed.

Need expert help on your Ivy League journey? Check out our step-by-step guide on How to Get into an Ivy League College and start building your dream application with upGrad today!

Admission Requirements for Ivy League School

Getting into an Ivy League school takes more than just high grades. These universities look at your full profile, including academics, personal qualities, and extracurriculars. This is called a holistic admission process, where every part of your application matters.

Here’s what most Ivy League applicants need:

• Academic transcripts
  Most students have a GPA above 3.8 and take advanced courses like AP, IB, or Honors. Being in the top 10 percent of your class is common.
• English language test scores (for international students)
  If English is not your first language, you’ll need one of these:
  • TOEFL iBT: 100 to 105
  • IELTS: 7.0 to 7.5
  • Duolingo English Test: varies by school
    Some universities may offer waivers based on prior education.
• Standardized tests (optional for many schools)
  • SAT: 1450 to 1580
  • ACT: 32 to 36
• Letters of recommendation
  Most schools ask for two letters from teachers of core subjects. These should highlight your academic skills and personal strengths.
• Essays
  Personal and supplemental essays are important. They should show who you are, what matters to you, and why you want to study at that university.
• Extracurricular activities
  Ivy League schools value leadership, commitment, and real impact. Show long-term involvement in a few activities rather than short-term participation in many.

Note: Make sure to check each Ivy League school’s official website for the most updated admission criteria.

Admission Process for Ivy League Schools 

The application process for Ivy League schools can be heavy and long, which includes multiple steps, deadlines, and decisions. Understanding this process can significantly improve your application strategy.

Most Ivy League schools accept applications through the Common App or Coalition App, and many offer Early Decision or Early Action options.

Here’s a table that explains the admission process: 

What to Do	When to Do It	What It Involves
Start Planning Early	Spring – Summer (Before Grade 12)	Learn about Ivy League schools   Start preparing for SAT/ACT or English tests like IELTS/TOEFL   Think about what to write in your personal essay
Begin Applications	August – September (Grade 12)	Open your Common App or Coalition App account   Make a list of schools you want to apply to   Start writing your essays
Submit Early Applications	October – November (Grade 12)	Finish and review your essays   Ask teachers for recommendation letters   Submit applications for Early Decision or Early Action (if applying early)
Submit Regular Applications	December – January	Submit the rest of your applications   Pay attention to each school’s deadlines   Make sure all test scores and documents are sent
Attend Interviews (if needed)	November – February	Some schools may ask for interviews Be ready to talk about yourself and your goals
Wait for Results	December (Early) / March-April	Early Decision results come in December Regular Decision results come around March or April
Make Your Final Choice	By May 1	Choose the school you want to attend   Pay your deposit   If you’re an international student, start your visa process

Note: International students may also need to submit TOEFL/IELTS scores and demonstrate financial resources. Staying organized and starting early is essential to navigating the process successfully.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Ivy League Schools

Despite their high tuition costs, Ivy League schools are committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need through generous scholarships and grants.

Here’s what to know:

• No Merit Scholarships: Ivies do not offer merit-based awards; aid is entirely need-based.
• Financial Aid Calculators: Each school provides online tools to estimate aid packages.
• International Aid: Available at select schools, though often more limited.
• Work-Study Opportunities: Included in aid packages, allowing students to work part-time on campus.

Students from families earning under $65,000 (INR 56L) annually may receive full scholarships covering tuition, room, and board. 

Here’s a breakdown of notable scholarships offerings at Ivy League institutions:

University	Scholarship/Fund Name	Eligibility Criteria
Harvard University	Harvard Financial Aid Initiative (HFAI)	Families earning <$85,000 (INR 73L)
Yale University	Yale Scholarship	Need-based (no income cap, but varies by profile)
Princeton University	Princeton Financial Aid Program	Families earning <$100,000 (INR 86L)
Brown University	The Brown Promise	Need-based; no loans in packages
Dartmouth College	Dartmouth Scholarship	Based on family income/assets

When planning to study in the USA it’s worth considering other funding opportunities and key factors. 

For more insights, explore scholarships to study in the USA for Indian students, which provide a broader perspective on available financial aid options.

Career Opportunities & Notable Alumni from Ivy League Schools 

An Ivy League education opens doors to exceptional career pathways and global networking opportunities, thanks to their influential alumni and strong employer relationships.

Job Prospects and Industry Connections

Graduates often land top positions in finance, law, tech, consulting, medicine, academia, and public service.

Ivy League universities maintain dedicated career services, internship programs, and employer partnerships. 

Companies like Goldman Sachs, Google and McKinsey frequently recruit from these institutions, offering lucrative salaries and global roles.

For students seeking to balance work and studies, exploring part-time job opportunities in the USA can be equally beneficial. This can complement internships while easing financial pressures during your academic journey.

World-Changing Alumni Networks 

From U.S. Presidents to Nobel Laureates, Ivy League alumni shape the world in countless fields.

Some standout alumni include:

• Barack Obama (Columbia, Harvard Law)
• Jeff Bezos (Princeton)
• Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Cornell, Columbia Law)
• John F. Kennedy (Harvard)
• Emma Watson (Brown)

Alumni networks offer mentorship, job referrals, and access to exclusive global events, greatly enhancing post-graduate success.

Tips for Getting Into an Ivy League School 

Securing a place at an Ivy League school takes more than intelligence—it requires authenticity, strategic preparation, and a story that sets you apart.

Here are expert-backed tips:

• Start Early: Build your academic and extracurricular profile by Grade 9.
• Be Passionate, Not Just Well-Rounded: Deep involvement in a few areas is better than shallow participation in many.
• Craft Authentic Essays: Focus on personal growth, values, and unique experiences.
• Seek Mentorship: From teachers, counselors, or Ivy alumni.
• Ace the Interview: Be clear, confident, and passionate about why you chose that specific school.

Tailoring your application to reflect not only who you are, but why you’re a fit for that particular Ivy, is key.

Conclusion

Your getting into an Ivy League school means you are leading towards a bright future and growth. With strong academics, top rankings, and alumni success, they offer the best opportunities are are not available anywhere else. Although they are competitive, the right preparation, grades, and essays can boost your chances. Start early, stay focused, and give your best.

Need help with Ivy League admissions? Talk to upGrad’s experts and get started today.