If you’re considering colleges, the “New Ivies” present strong options. Use this guide to explore and compare them by academics, admissions, and affordability.
In This Article:
- Forbes New Ivies list
- Older New Ivies list from Newsweek
- Best New Ivies by category
- New Ivies admissions
- Affordability at the New Ivies
- A closer look at each New Ivy school
- Steps to decide if a New Ivy is right for you
What Are the New Ivies?
The “New Ivies” refer to colleges recognized for their academics, impact, and post-graduate outcomes, rivaling the Ivy League. The term was popularized by Newsweek in 2006 and revisited by Forbes in 2024. Both lists include schools like Boston College, Carnegie Mellon, and the University of Virginia.
The 2006 Newsweek list emphasized schools that combined selectivity, tradition, and academic excellence, reflecting trends of the time. In contrast, Forbes focuses on career outcomes, affordability, and innovation, highlighting schools that have adapted to modern educational priorities. Together, these lists showcase the evolving nature of elite higher education.
Forbes New Ivies List 2024
Forbes identified these schools based on metrics like ROI, career outcomes, and selectivity. Many are noted for innovation and adaptability in higher education.
- Binghamton University
- Boston College
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Emory University
- Georgetown University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Johns Hopkins University
- Northwestern University
- Rice University
- University of Florida
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of Maryland – College Park
- University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
- University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- University of Notre Dame
- University of Southern California
- University of Texas – Austin
- University of Virginia
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Vanderbilt University
Note: For its list, Forbes excluded the eight actual Ivies, the four “Ivy Plus” schools (Stanford, MIT, Duke, and the University of Chicago), and schools under 4,000 students.
2006 Newsweek List of New Ivies
The Newsweek list, one of the first to popularize the term “Little Ivies,” highlighted institutions combining academic tradition and selectivity with a strong liberal arts focus, reflecting trends from nearly two decades ago.
- Bates College
- Bowdoin College
- Boston College
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Colgate University
- Davidson College
- Emory University
- Kenyon College
- Middlebury College
- New York University
- Oberlin College
- Pomona College
- Reed College
- Swarthmore College
- Trinity College
- University of California – Berkeley
- University of Michigan
- University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- University of Rochester
- University of Virginia
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Vanderbilt University
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Wesleyan University
- Williams College
Colleges that Appear on Both New Ivy Lists
- Boston College
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Michigan
- University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- University of Virginia
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Vanderbilt University
Best Little Ivies by Category
| Category | Top Schools |
|---|---|
| Best for STEM Programs | Carnegie Mellon University; Georgia Institute of Technology; University of California, Berkeley |
| Best for Liberal Arts | Bowdoin College; Kenyon College; Swarthmore College |
| Best for Business and Economics | New York University; University of Michigan; Emory University |
| Best for Arts and Humanities | Oberlin College; Reed College; Williams College |
| Best for Research Opportunities | Johns Hopkins University; University of California, Berkeley; Rice University |
| Best Financial Aid | Vanderbilt University; Swarthmore College; Washington University in St. Louis |
| Most Affordable Public Schools | University of Florida; Binghamton University; University of Wisconsin-Madison |
| Best Value | University of Virginia; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; University of Florida |
Admissions at the New Ivies
The New Ivies offer a wide range of opportunities for students, reflecting the diversity and selectivity of these schools. Some have admission rates as competitive as the Ivy League, while others are more accessible, providing a variety of options for talented applicants. This mix is part of what makes the New Ivies so appealing—they attract students looking for challenging academics, innovative programs, and vibrant campuses.
On the highly selective side, schools like Vanderbilt University, Johns Hopkins University, and Rice University admit fewer than 8% of applicants, putting them on par with Ivy League schools. Bowdoin College, with an acceptance rate of just 8.02%, and Emory University at 10.65%, also demand top-notch academic records and test scores. Many of these schools take a holistic approach to admissions, looking beyond grades and test scores to value leadership, community engagement, and unique personal qualities.
On the more accessible end, public New Ivies like Binghamton University (41.75%), the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (43.69%), and the University of Maryland (44.84%) open their doors to a wider range of students while still maintaining high academic standards. These schools balance excellence with inclusivity, drawing in diverse, dynamic student bodies eager to take advantage of their programs.
Admissions Stats for the New Ivies, 2023-24
| State | Type | Admit Rate | SAT Avg | ACT Avg | Full-time Undergrads | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bates College | ME | Private | 13.06% | 1,753 | ||
| Binghamton University, State University of New York | NY | Public | 41.75% | 31 | 14,402 | |
| Boston College | MA | Private | 15.65% | 9,575 | ||
| Bowdoin College | MA | Private | 8.02% | 1420 | 32 | 1,850 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | PA | Private | 7,509 | |||
| Colgate University | NY | Private | 11.95% | 1480 | 32 | 3,131 |
| Davidson College | NC | Private | 14.48% | 1420 | 32 | 1,904 |
| Emory University | GA | Private | 10.65% | 1490 | 33 | 7,359 |
| Georgetown University | DC | Private | 13.08% | 7,968 | ||
| Georgia Institute of Technology | GA | Public | 16.46% | 1430 | 31 | 19,505 |
| Johns Hopkins University | MD | Private | 7.56% | 6,090 | ||
| Kenyon College | OH | Private | 30.71% | 1430 | 32 | 1,753 |
| Middlebury College | VT | Private | 10.37% | 2,800 | ||
| New York University | NY | Private | 9.41% | 29,760 | ||
| Northwestern University | IL | Private | 8,846 | |||
| Oberlin College | OH | Private | 34.87% | 2,977 | ||
| Pomona College | CA | Private | 1470 | 34 | 1,761 | |
| Reed College | OR | Private | 27.16% | 1,439 | ||
| Rice University | TX | Private | 7.88% | 4,574 | ||
| Swarthmore College | PA | Private | 1490 | 34 | 1,644 | |
| The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | NC | Public | 18.74% | 1420 | 30 | 20,880 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | TX | Public | 29.12% | 1420 | 42,444 | |
| Trinity College | CT | Private | 36.14% | 31 | 2,167 | |
| University of California, Berkeley | CA | Public | 11.65% | 33,405 | ||
| University of Florida | FL | Public | 24.03% | 1380 | 30 | 34,924 |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | IL | Public | 43.69% | 1410 | 31 | 35,564 |
| University of Maryland, College Park | MD | Public | 44.84% | 30,608 | ||
| University of Michigan | MI | Public | 17.94% | 33,730 | ||
| University of Notre Dame | IN | Private | 7.32% | 8,968 | ||
| University of Rochester | NY | Private | 35.85% | 1440 | 33 | 6,764 |
| University of Southern California | CA | Private | 12.02% | 32 | 20,620 | |
| University of Virginia | VA | Public | 18.66% | 1450 | 33 | 17,496 |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | WI | Public | 43.32% | 37,817 | ||
| Vanderbilt University | TN | Private | 6.28% | 7,152 | ||
| Washington University in St. Louis | MO | Private | 11.96% | 1530 | 34 | 8,267 |
| Wesleyan University | CT | Private | 17.10% | 1390 | 32 | 3,066 |
| Williams College | MA | Private | 9.99% | 1510 | 34 | 2,097 |
Affordability of the New Ivies
The cost of attending a New Ivy varies widely, reflecting differences in public versus private institutions and their approaches to financial aid. Private colleges like Vanderbilt University, Pomona College, and Washington University in St. Louis boast robust need-based financial aid packages, often exceeding $65,000 on average, significantly reducing the financial burden for qualifying students. However, these schools typically do not offer substantial merit-based awards, with some exceptions like Trinity College and Northwestern University, which provide sizable merit scholarships.
Public New Ivies, such as the University of Florida and Binghamton University, maintain lower in-state costs, making them accessible options for local residents. For example, the University of Florida’s cost of attendance for in-state students is just $23,530, one of the most affordable options on the list. Out-of-state students, however, face higher costs than private colleges, with institutions like the University of Michigan and the University of California, Berkeley exceeding $75,000 annually.
Overall, the New Ivies reflect a diverse financial landscape, offering pathways for students from various income levels. Institutions like Swarthmore College and Vanderbilt University stand out for their commitment to reducing debt through generous need-based aid. At the same time, schools such as New York University and Trinity College combine strong need-based support with substantial merit awards to attract top talent.
Costs and Aid at the New Ivies, 2023-24
| Type | Cost of Attendance (COA) In-State | COA Out-of-State | Avg. Need-Based Award | Avg. Merit-Based Award | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bates College | Private | $85,370 | $85,370 | $59,193 | $0 |
| Binghamton University, State University of New York | Public | $31,172 | $51,252 | $15,002 | $9,256 |
| Boston College | Private | $89,930 | $89,930 | $50,976 | $29,133 |
| Bowdoin College | Private | $88,820 | $88,820 | $62,389 | $1,000 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Private | $80,728 | $80,728 | $52,256 | $7,591 |
| Colgate University | Private | $87,916 | $87,916 | $64,355 | $0 |
| Davidson College | Private | $84,260 | $84,260 | $57,439 | $25,400 |
| Emory University | Private | $88,502 | $88,502 | $52,113 | $25,536 |
| Georgetown University | Private | $88,782 | $88,782 | $49,953 | $0 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Public | $29,726 | $52,152 | $15,828 | $5,453 |
| Johns Hopkins University | Private | $88,976 | $88,976 | $62,498 | $29,844 |
| Kenyon College | Private | $91,010 | $91,010 | $54,708 | $16,839 |
| Middlebury College | Private | $89,850 | $89,850 | $61,562 | $17,272 |
| New York University | Private | $93,184 | $93,184 | $59,903 | $40,607 |
| Northwestern University | Private | $86,907 | $86,907 | $63,954 | $32,431 |
| Oberlin College | Private | $86,876 | $86,876 | $51,982 | $22,388 |
| Pomona College | Private | $83,380 | $83,380 | $67,819 | $5,064 |
| Reed College | Private | $87,010 | $87,010 | $50,677 | $0 |
| Rice University | Private | $86,279 | $86,279 | $59,724 | $22,944 |
| Swarthmore College | Private | $81,252 | $81,252 | $64,615 | $58,928 |
| The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Public | $42,365 | $61,022 | $17,528 | $7,689 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | Public | $31,616 | $59,544 | $19,550 | $3,406 |
| Trinity College | Private | $89,660 | $89,660 | $58,323 | $61,070 |
| University of California, Berkeley | Public | $44,454 | $78,655 | $31,559 | $7,862 |
| University of Florida | Public | $25,530 | $45,808 | $13,302 | $3,617 |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Public | $26,028 | $44,000 | $19,449 | $6,345 |
| University of Maryland, College Park | Public | $31,730 | $61,108 | $13,412 | $6,733 |
| University of Michigan | Public | $36,932 | $80,142 | $26,947 | $4,387 |
| University of Notre Dame | Private | $86,125 | $86,125 | $60,694 | $19,667 |
| University of Rochester | Private | $89,326 | $89,326 | $57,871 | $14,800 |
| University of Southern California | Private | $95,225 | $95,225 | $63,884 | $18,463 |
| University of Virginia | Public | $39,494 | $78,214 | $35,442 | $5,870 |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Public | $30,008 | $61,106 | $20,697 | $7,224 |
| Vanderbilt University | Private | $94,072 | $94,072 | $69,254 | $22,428 |
| Washington University in St. Louis | Private | $87,644 | $87,644 | $68,359 | $26,310 |
| Wesleyan University | Private | $92,994 | $92,994 | $69,006 | $18,821 |
| Williams College | Private | $85,820 | $84,820 | $65,134 | $0 |
A Closer Look at the New Ivies
Here’s a closer look at the colleges that appear on either or both lists of the New Ivies.
Bates College
Location: Lewiston, ME – A picturesque New England town offering access to outdoor activities and a close-knit community.
Top Programs: Environmental Studies, Political Science, Biology – Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and experiential opportunities like internships and fieldwork.
Student Life: Known for its inclusive, collaborative community that prioritizes sustainability and civic engagement, with more than 100 student organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: Harward Center for Community Partnerships connects students with local organizations for hands-on learning and social impact projects.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Offers need-based aid to meet 100% of demonstrated need, ensuring access to a Bates education for all admitted students.
Unique Traditions: The Annual Puddle Jump, where students plunge into an icy campus pond during winter festivities, symbolizes resilience and community spirit.
Bowdoin College
Location: Brunswick, ME – Nestled along the coast, Bowdoin provides students with a mix of natural beauty and cultural opportunities.
Top Programs: Government, Economics, Environmental Science – Rigorous academics that integrate global perspectives, supported by research opportunities with faculty.
Student Life: Offers a welcoming community focused on inclusivity, outdoor adventures, and campus traditions like hosting concerts and cultural events.
Notable Research/Resources: The Arctic Studies Center provides unique insights into climate change and Arctic exploration, reflecting Bowdoin’s historic connections.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Need-blind admissions policy and generous aid make Bowdoin accessible to students from all financial backgrounds.
Unique Traditions: Ivies Weekend, an annual spring celebration with music, food, and festivities that unite the campus community.
Boston College
Location: Chestnut Hill, MA – Just outside Boston, offering the advantages of a suburban campus with access to a bustling city.
Top Programs: Business, Nursing, Theology – Highly ranked programs emphasizing ethics, leadership, and professional excellence.
Student Life: A dynamic campus culture with Division I athletics, over 300 student organizations, and a strong emphasis on Jesuit values of service and learning.
Notable Research/Resources: Renowned centers for research in theology, social justice, and health sciences, contributing to global solutions.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Committed to meeting full demonstrated need with robust need-based aid packages and scholarships.
Unique Traditions: Marathon Monday celebrations, where the BC community gathers to cheer on runners during the Boston Marathon, fostering school spirit.
Carnegie Mellon University
Location: Pittsburgh, PA – A vibrant, tech-driven city with a thriving arts and cultural scene.
Top Programs: Computer Science, Engineering, Drama – World-renowned programs offering cutting-edge research and industry connections.
Student Life: A culture of innovation and collaboration, with opportunities to participate in hackathons, theater productions, and student-run startups.
Notable Research/Resources: The Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics research and innovation, provides students with unparalleled opportunities.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Offers a mix of need-based aid and competitive merit scholarships for high-achieving students.
Unique Traditions: Spring Carnival and Buggy Races, a multi-day event showcasing creativity, engineering skills, and campus pride.
Colgate University
Location: Hamilton, NY – A picturesque, small-town campus with a vibrant community feel and access to the outdoors.
Top Programs: Political Science, Economics, Biology – Academically rigorous programs with a focus on mentorship and experiential learning.
Student Life: Features a strong Greek life presence, active student government, and numerous cultural and service-oriented organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: Upstate Institute connects students with local communities to address regional challenges through research and internships.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Meets full demonstrated financial need for admitted students, making a Colgate education attainable for all.
Unique Traditions: Founders’ Day, an annual celebration honoring the university’s history and community contributions.
Davidson College
Location: Davidson, NC – A charming college town known for its warm climate, close-knit community, and historic architecture.
Top Programs: Political Science, Biology, Economics – Small class sizes and a strong focus on undergraduate research foster a high level of academic engagement.
Student Life: Upholds an honor code tradition, fostering trust and accountability among students. Features active clubs, intramural sports, and arts programs.
Notable Research/Resources: Davidson Research Initiative provides funding and mentorship for student-led projects across disciplines.
Affordability & Financial Aid: A no-loan financial aid policy ensures students graduate without debt, reflecting Davidson’s commitment to affordability.
Unique Traditions: The Cake Race, a fun run during orientation, welcomes new students with sweet treats and camaraderie.
Emory University
Location: Atlanta, GA – A dynamic urban setting with access to cultural landmarks, Fortune 500 companies, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Top Programs: Business, Public Health, Psychology – Leading programs supported by strong industry ties and opportunities for global engagement.
Student Life: Offers a thriving campus scene with over 400 clubs, Greek life, and artistic performances, promoting a balanced lifestyle.
Notable Research/Resources: Winship Cancer Institute, a premier research and treatment facility, provides students with groundbreaking opportunities.
Affordability & Financial Aid: The Emory Advantage program eliminates loans for low-income students, ensuring equitable access to education.
Unique Traditions: Wonderful Wednesday events bring the campus together with food, games, and performances every week.
Kenyon College
Location: Gambier, OH – A scenic rural campus known for its Gothic architecture and serene surroundings.
Top Programs: English, Political Science, Psychology – Distinguished for its writing programs and personalized faculty mentorship.
Student Life: A close-knit, intellectually curious community with a strong literary focus and a thriving arts scene.
Notable Research/Resources: Home to the Kenyon Review, a prestigious literary magazine providing publishing and internship opportunities for students.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Offers robust need-based aid, ensuring access for students from all financial backgrounds.
Unique Traditions: Middle Path gatherings, fostering reflection and connection within the community.
Middlebury College
Location: Middlebury, VT – Situated in a picturesque town surrounded by the Green Mountains, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Programs: Environmental Science, International Studies, Creative Writing – Renowned for its leadership in environmental initiatives and global learning.
Student Life: A vibrant campus culture centered on sustainability, inclusivity, and academic collaboration.
Notable Research/Resources: Middlebury Language Schools and Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference offer immersive and renowned educational opportunities.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need with generous aid packages.
Unique Traditions: Winter Carnival, featuring snow sculptures, ski races, and community celebrations at the Middlebury Snow Bowl.
New York University (NYU)
Location: New York, NY – In the heart of Manhattan, offering unparalleled access to cultural, professional, and academic resources.
Top Programs: Business, Film, International Relations – Home to globally recognized programs supported by industry leaders and alumni networks.
Student Life: Thrives on diversity, with students engaging in unique cultural, artistic, and social experiences across the city.
Notable Research/Resources: Tisch School of the Arts and Stern School of Business lead innovation in creative and entrepreneurial fields.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Expanding need-based aid programs to make NYU more accessible to talented students worldwide.
Unique Traditions: Violet Ball and Strawberry Festival, bringing the community together to celebrate milestones and seasons.
Oberlin College
Location: Oberlin, OH – A historic campus known for its progressive values and vibrant artistic environment.
Top Programs: Music, Environmental Studies, Political Science – Features a dual-degree program with its prestigious Conservatory of Music.
Student Life: Active in social justice and environmental sustainability, with over 175 student organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies, a model of sustainable building and learning.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Provides need-based aid and merit scholarships for both conservatory and liberal arts students.
Unique Traditions: Oberlin Drag Ball, a celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and self-expression.
Pomona College
Location: Claremont, CA – A sunlit campus nestled at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains, part of the Claremont Consortium.
Top Programs: Economics, Biology, Media Studies – Known for academic rigor and collaboration across disciplines within the consortium.
Student Life: Offers access to shared resources and events within five neighboring colleges, fostering an expansive community.
Notable Research/Resources: Bernard Field Station provides a living laboratory for ecological research and environmental studies.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Need-blind admissions for domestic students, with aid meeting 100% of demonstrated need.
Unique Traditions: Ski-Beach Day, where students ski in the morning and enjoy the California coast in the afternoon.
Reed College
Location: Portland, OR – A liberal arts college in a vibrant city known for its creative culture and green spaces.
Top Programs: Philosophy, Biology, Physics – Emphasizes intellectual independence and rigorous academic inquiry.
Student Life: A distinctive community of thinkers and creators, with a focus on collaboration and self-expression.
Notable Research/Resources: Nuclear Reactor Program, one of the few on-campus research reactors in the nation.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Generous need-based aid, ensuring access without loans for eligible students.
Unique Traditions: Renn Fayre, a celebratory festival marking the end of the academic year with art, music, and camaraderie.
Swarthmore College
Location: Swarthmore, PA – A tranquil, arboretum-like campus just outside of Philadelphia.
Top Programs: Engineering, Political Science, English – Combines liberal arts education with strong technical and analytical programs.
Student Life: Encourages civic engagement, with a tight-knit community focused on social responsibility and inclusivity.
Notable Research/Resources: Lang Center for Civic and Social Responsibility supports service-learning projects and internships.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans, ensuring students graduate debt-free.
Unique Traditions: First Collection, a campus-wide gathering that emphasizes reflection and unity at the start of each semester.
Trinity College
Location: Hartford, CT – An urban campus offering a mix of historic charm and city engagement.
Top Programs: Economics, Public Policy, Urban Studies – Known for its focus on urban and global issues, fostering real-world learning.
Student Life: Active in civic initiatives, with a strong emphasis on community-based projects and diverse student organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: Center for Urban and Global Studies, a hub for interdisciplinary research and international partnerships.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Strong financial aid packages, prioritizing access and affordability for talented students.
Unique Traditions: Chapel Sing, where incoming students participate in a musical tradition to welcome them to campus.
University of California – Berkeley
Location: Berkeley, CA – A global hub for innovation and activism, situated near San Francisco.
Top Programs: Computer Science, Environmental Science, Business – Highly ranked programs with world-class faculty and research facilities.
Student Life: Vibrant campus culture, blending academic excellence with activism, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Notable Research/Resources: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory leads cutting-edge research in energy and technology.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Offers robust aid for in-state students and competitive programs for out-of-state students, ensuring high ROI.
Unique Traditions: The Big Game rivalry with Stanford and the Cal Band’s performances reflect rich school spirit.
University of Michigan
Location: Ann Arbor, MI – A lively college town known for its cultural festivals, top-notch restaurants, and vibrant arts scene.
Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Medicine – Offers globally recognized programs with extensive research opportunities and industry connections.
Student Life: A spirited campus life with over 1,600 student organizations and a strong sports culture centered on Wolverine pride.
Notable Research/Resources: The Institute for Social Research and Ross School of Business provide cutting-edge facilities and leadership opportunities.
Affordability & Financial Aid: The Go Blue Guarantee offers free tuition for in-state students from low- to moderate-income families.
Unique Traditions: “The Big House” football games and Festifall, an annual celebration of student life and campus engagement.
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
Location: Chapel Hill, NC – A historic campus with Southern charm, nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle.
Top Programs: Public Health, Business, Psychology – Known for strong interdisciplinary programs and innovation.
Student Life: Balances academic rigor with Southern hospitality, offering over 800 student organizations and thriving arts and athletics scenes.
Notable Research/Resources: Gillings School of Global Public Health leads initiatives in global health and disease prevention.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Generous aid packages, including the Carolina Covenant for low-income students, ensure affordability.
Unique Traditions: Drinking from the Old Well on the first day of classes for good luck and the annual FallFest welcoming event.
University of Rochester
Location: Rochester, NY – A scenic campus along the Genesee River, offering a strong connection to the arts and sciences.
Top Programs: Optics, Music, Engineering – Features unique programs such as the Eastman School of Music and cutting-edge research in optics.
Student Life: Encourages interdisciplinary learning and creativity, with a rich mix of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
Notable Research/Resources: The Laboratory for Laser Energetics conducts groundbreaking research in photonics and fusion energy.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Committed to meeting demonstrated financial need, offering merit scholarships for high-achieving students.
Unique Traditions: Dandelion Day, a springtime celebration with games, food, and music to mark the end of the academic year.
University of Virginia
Location: Charlottesville, VA – A UNESCO World Heritage site, blending historic charm with a modern college-town vibe.
Top Programs: Law, Business, Government – Home to highly ranked schools, including the Darden School of Business and the School of Law.
Student Life: A blend of historic traditions and modern student initiatives, with over 1,000 clubs and organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: The Miller Center and Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy foster civic engagement and leadership.
Affordability & Financial Aid: AccessUVA guarantees to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, offering no-loan aid packages for eligible students.
Unique Traditions: Jefferson’s Academical Village and Lighting of the Lawn, fostering a deep connection to the university’s history.
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Location: Madison, WI – A picturesque campus on the shores of Lake Mendota, with a lively downtown just steps away.
Top Programs: Agriculture, Political Science, Engineering – Offers top-ranked programs with strong ties to industry and public policy.
Student Life: Known for its active student body, vibrant music scene, and outdoor activities, with over 900 organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: Wisconsin Institutes for Discovery leads interdisciplinary research in science, technology, and health.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Strong aid packages for in-state students and a variety of merit scholarships for others.
Unique Traditions: “Jump Around” at football games and gathering at the Terrace at Memorial Union for sunsets and live music.
Vanderbilt University
Location: Nashville, TN – A vibrant campus in the heart of Music City, offering access to cultural and professional opportunities.
Top Programs: Medicine, Education, Music – Renowned for its research facilities and the Peabody College of Education.
Student Life: A dynamic community with over 500 student organizations and close ties to Nashville’s music and arts scene.
Notable Research/Resources: Vanderbilt Medical Center is a global leader in medical research and innovation.
Affordability & Financial Aid: A no-loan financial aid policy ensures accessibility for students from all financial backgrounds.
Unique Traditions: Rites of Spring, an annual music festival featuring live performances and campus-wide festivities.
Washington University in St. Louis
Location: St. Louis, MO – A picturesque campus in the cultural and historical hub of St. Louis.
Top Programs: Medicine, Architecture, Social Work – Offers leading programs supported by world-class faculty and research initiatives.
Student Life: Focuses on research, community engagement, and vibrant campus life, with over 450 clubs and organizations.
Notable Research/Resources: Brown School of Social Work and McDonnell Genome Institute are leaders in social impact and genetics research.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Need-based scholarships and merit aid are available to ensure access and affordability.
Unique Traditions: Thurtene Carnival, a student-run festival showcasing creativity and philanthropy.
Wesleyan University
Location: Middletown, CT – A historic campus set along the Connecticut River, offering a blend of academic excellence and artistic freedom.
Top Programs: Film, Government, Neuroscience – Renowned for fostering innovation and interdisciplinary exploration.
Student Life: Creative and politically active, with over 200 clubs and organizations emphasizing collaboration and social justice.
Notable Research/Resources: The Center for the Humanities promotes research and dialogue in arts and social sciences.
Affordability & Financial Aid: Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, ensuring equitable access to a Wesleyan education.
Unique Traditions: “Zonker Harris Day,” a lighthearted celebration of counterculture, creativity, and community.
Williams College
Location: Williamstown, MA – A scenic campus in the Berkshires, offering a strong sense of community and outdoor opportunities.
Top Programs: Economics, Art History, Biology – Known for small class sizes, a liberal arts focus, and an emphasis on undergraduate research.
Student Life: A tight-knit community with a strong tradition of mentorship and collaboration across disciplines.
Notable Research/Resources: Williams-Mystic Maritime Studies Program offers experiential learning in coastal environments.
Affordability & Financial Aid: A no-loan financial aid policy ensures affordability, with grants covering full demonstrated need.
Unique Traditions: Mountain Day, where classes are canceled for outdoor activities, fostering community and appreciation for nature.
Steps to Decide if a New Ivy is Right for You
Choosing a New Ivy is about finding the perfect blend of academic rigor, affordability, and campus culture that fits your aspirations. Here’s how to figure out if one of these prestigious schools is the right match:
- Define Academic Priorities:
Think about what you want to study and which schools excel in those areas. Are you drawn to the world-class engineering programs at Carnegie Mellon or Georgia Tech? Or maybe you’re captivated by the liberal arts focus of Bowdoin or Davidson? The New Ivies each have standout programs that cater to different interests. - Compare Costs:
Some New Ivies, like the University of Florida and Binghamton University, are budget-friendly for in-state students, while private schools like Vanderbilt and Swarthmore offer generous financial aid packages. Take a close look at tuition, need-based aid, and merit scholarships to understand your net costs. - Assess Campus Life:
Each New Ivy has a unique vibe. Do you see yourself at a small, close-knit college like Kenyon or Middlebury, or would you thrive on a larger, bustling campus like the University of Michigan or NYU? Explore student culture, traditions, and extracurricular opportunities to find a campus that feels like home. - Evaluate Career Outcomes:
The New Ivies boast strong alumni networks and career connections. Research which schools have ties to industries you’re interested in—like Rice and its connections to Houston’s energy sector, or Georgetown’s influence in politics and international relations. - Gauge Admissions Fit:
With acceptance rates ranging from under 8% at Vanderbilt to over 40% at Illinois, it’s important to understand where you stand academically. Compare your GPA and test scores with the stats for your target schools, and don’t forget that many New Ivies value extracurricular involvement and leadership. - Visit Campuses:
Finally, nothing beats walking the grounds and experiencing the campus atmosphere firsthand. Whether it’s the tech-driven energy at Carnegie Mellon, the coastal charm of Bowdoin, or the urban buzz of NYU, a visit can help you see if it’s the right place to spend your college years.
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Use R2C Insights to help find merit aid and schools that fit the criteria most important to your student. You’ll not only save precious time, but your student will avoid the heartache of applying to schools they aren’t likely to get into or can’t afford to attend.
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Other Articles You Might Like:
The Hidden Ivies: Is One Right for You?
Comparing the Public Ivies: Is One Right for You?
Colleges That Change Lives: The List of 45, Comparisons, and How to Choose
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