This guide dives into the Public Ivies, showcasing each school’s academic strengths, campus culture, and admissions. You’ll find insights on everything from affordability to top programs to help you decide if a Public Ivy might be the right fit.
Inside This Article:
- Full list and descriptions of the Public Ivy schools
- Ranking the top Public Ivy schools by category
- How the Public Ivies compare with the Ivy League
- How hard is it to get into a Public Ivy?
- Are the Public Ivy schools affordable?
- How to choose a Public Ivy school
What Are the Public Ivies?
The term “Public Ivies” refers to top public universities that offer an Ivy League-quality experience at a public school price. Former Yale admissions officer Richard Moll coined the term in his 1985 book, Public Ivies: A Guide to America’s Best Public Undergraduate Colleges and Universities. He identified eight Public Ivies known for combining prestige with affordability.
In 2001, Howard and Matthew Greene expanded Moll’s idea with The Public Ivies: America’s Flagship Public Universities, a list of 30 public institutions across the U.S. Their list reflects how the Public Ivy concept has grown to include universities with strong academics, dynamic campus life, and high standards across a variety of fields.
Which Schools Are Considered Public Ivies?
Here’s a look at both the original Public Ivies and the additional schools recognized by the Greenes:
Original Public Ivies (from Moll’s 1985 list)
- College of William & Mary
- Miami University (Ohio)
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Michigan
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of Texas at Austin
- University of Vermont
- University of Virginia
Additional Public Ivies (from the Greenes’ 2001 list)
- Binghamton University (SUNY)
- Indiana University Bloomington
- Michigan State University
- Ohio State University
- Pennsylvania State University
- Rutgers University
- University of Arizona
- University of Colorado Boulder
- University of Connecticut
- University of Delaware
- University of Florida
- University of Georgia
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of Iowa
- University of Maryland, College Park
- University of Minnesota
- University of Washington
- University of Wisconsin–Madison
- University of California, Davis
- University of California, Irvine
- University of California, San Diego
- University of California, Santa Barbara
A Closer Look at the Public Ivies
Here’s a look at key aspects of all 30 schools considered Public Ivies by various sources.
College of William & Mary
- Location: Williamsburg, VA – Historic town with Colonial charm.
- Top Programs: Government, History, Business, Law.
- Student Life: Tight-knit community with active service groups and student-led research.
- Notable Research/Resources: Strong focus on undergraduate research, with support through the Charles Center.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to D.C. for government internships; strong pre-law track.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits; solid aid packages.
- Unique Traditions: “Yule Log” holiday celebration and Convocation Walk.
Miami University (Ohio)
- Location: Oxford, OH – Small, picturesque college town.
- Top Programs: Business, Education, Political Science.
- Student Life: Known for beautiful campus and vibrant Greek life.
- Notable Research/Resources: Farmer School of Business is highly regarded.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Strong alumni network in Cincinnati and Columbus.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and scholarships for merit.
- Unique Traditions: “Miami Merger” for alumni couples and the annual Green Beer Day.
University of California, Berkeley
- Location: Berkeley, CA – Urban, with quick access to San Francisco.
- Top Programs: Computer Science, Political Science, Environmental Science.
- Student Life: Energetic campus with a focus on activism and sustainability.
- Notable Research/Resources: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Bay Area tech and research hubs.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: Robust aid for in-state students; high cost of living.
- Unique Traditions: Annual Cal Day and the Big Game against Stanford.
University of Michigan
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI – Thriving college town with arts and culture.
- Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Psychology, Public Health.
- Student Life: Diverse student orgs, spirited sports culture.
- Notable Research/Resources: Renowned for medical research and STEM.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Links with Detroit and Chicago industries.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: “Go Blue Guarantee” for in-state students.
- Unique Traditions: The “Big House” stadium and Festifall.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Location: Chapel Hill, NC – Close-knit college town.
- Top Programs: Public Health, Business, Psychology.
- Student Life: Strong community service culture; vibrant arts scene.
- Notable Research/Resources:Top-tier medical and public health research centers.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Ties to RTP’s tech and biotech industries.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: Known for generous financial aid.
- Unique Traditions: “Old Well” tradition and the annual Beat Duke campaign.
University of Texas at Austin
- Location: Austin, TX – Dynamic city with tech and arts scenes.
- Top Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, Business.
- Student Life: Rich in school spirit; music and cultural events.
- Notable Research/Resources: Strong research in energy and environmental science.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Access to Austin’s tech startups and larger companies.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits; Texas Advance Commitment.
- Unique Traditions: Tower lighting for sports victories and the “Eyes of Texas” song.
University of Vermont
- Location: Burlington, VT – Scenic and outdoorsy city.
- Top Programs: Environmental Studies, Nursing, Business.
- Student Life: Outdoors-focused; active sustainability clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Rubenstein School for Environmental Research.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Local government, healthcare, and environmental organizations.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state discounts and renewable energy scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: UVM’s annual Winter Carnival and Green and Gold Pride.
University of Virginia
- Location: Charlottesville, VA – Small city with historical ties.
- Top Programs: Government, Business, English.
- Student Life: Community-focused; strong Greek life.
- Notable Research/Resources: Miller Center for Public Policy Research.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: D.C. internships, especially in government.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: Strong aid for in-state students.
- Unique Traditions: Jefferson’s “Academical Village” and the Honor Code.
Binghamton University (SUNY)
- Location: Binghamton, NY – Mid-sized town with a tech scene.
- Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Psychology.
- Student Life: Known for service orgs and environmental clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Innovative labs in battery technology.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Connections in New York City.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: SUNY tuition benefits.
- Unique Traditions: Spring Fling and the annual Lip Sync Contest.
Indiana University Bloomington
- Location: Bloomington, IN – Artistic, progressive college town.
- Top Programs: Business, Public and Environmental Affairs, Journalism.
- Student Life: Lively arts and music scene; Greek life.
- Notable Research/Resources: Kelley School of Business.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Network in Indiana’s major cities.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits.
- Unique Traditions: Little 500 bike race and the IU fountain run.
Michigan State University
- Location: East Lansing, MI – Small city near state capital.
- Top Programs: Education, Agriculture, Communication.
- Student Life: Known for its agriculture roots; active Greek life.
- Notable Research/Resources: Leading research in agricultural sciences.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Government and business links in Lansing.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition options.
- Unique Traditions: Sparty mascot and the “Go Green” chant.
Ohio State University
- Location: Columbus, OH – Large city with diverse job opportunities.
- Top Programs: Nursing, Engineering, Business.
- Student Life: Strong sports culture; large student org network.
- Notable Research/Resources: Cutting-edge medical research facilities.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Business and healthcare links in Columbus.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: Mirror Lake Jump and Script Ohio.
Pennsylvania State University
- Location: University Park, PA – College town in central PA.
- Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Nursing.
- Student Life: Extensive Greek life; active student-run philanthropy.
- Notable Research/Resources: Known for meteorology and materials science.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Networking with Philadelphia firms.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state benefits.
- Unique Traditions: The “We Are” chant and THON dance marathon.
Rutgers University
- Location: New Brunswick, NJ – Close to NYC and Philly.
- Top Programs: Psychology, Criminal Justice, Biological Sciences.
- Student Life: Known for service and science-focused clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Top-ranked genetics research labs.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to major East Coast cities.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition discounts.
- Unique Traditions: Raritan River community events and Rutgers Day.
University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ – Warm, desert environment.
- Top Programs: Astronomy, Environmental Science, Engineering.
- Student Life: Known for outdoor clubs and cultural events.
- Notable Research/Resources: Steward Observatory and Space Research.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Links with NASA and space agencies.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state benefits and merit aid.
- Unique Traditions: “Bear Down” spirit and annual Spring Fling.
University of Colorado Boulder
- Location: Boulder, CO – Picturesque and outdoors-focused.
- Top Programs: Environmental Science, Aerospace Engineering, Business.
- Student Life: Active outdoors culture; sustainability-focused clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Renowned for climate and environmental research.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to Denver and major research centers.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits.
- Unique Traditions: CU Boulder Buff pride and the “Running of Ralphie” bison.
University of Connecticut
- Location: Storrs, CT – Rural campus with easy access to Boston and NYC.
- Top Programs: Nursing, Business, Psychology.
- Student Life: Strong community and intramural sports culture.
- Notable Research/Resources: Leading research in healthcare and agriculture.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to major Northeast cities.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition discounts; robust scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: UConn Dairy Bar and Huskies basketball fan base.
University of Delaware
- Location: Newark, DE – Small, historic town.
- Top Programs: Chemical Engineering, Business, Biological Sciences.
- Student Life: Known for study abroad programs and sustainability clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Center for Composite Materials.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Close to Philly and NYC for internships.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and merit-based aid.
- Unique Traditions: “Fightin’ Blue Hens” pride and annual Ag Day.
University of Florida
- Location: Gainesville, FL – College town with a lively atmosphere.
- Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Journalism.
- Student Life: Active Greek life and sports scene, with a large student body.
- Notable Research/Resources: Focus on innovation and health sciences.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Strong network in Florida’s industries.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and the “Bright Futures” scholarship.
- Unique Traditions: “Gator Chomp” cheer and the annual Homecoming Gator Growl.
University of Georgia
- Location: Athens, GA – Vibrant college town with a strong arts scene.
- Top Programs: Journalism, Business, Biological Sciences.
- Student Life: Rich in traditions and a strong Greek life presence.
- Notable Research/Resources: Leading center in agriculture and genetics.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Close ties to Atlanta industries.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state scholarships and HOPE/Zell Miller scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: “Calling the Dawgs” cheer and the UGA Arch.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Location: Urbana and Champaign, IL – Twin college towns in central Illinois.
- Top Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, Business.
- Student Life: Large campus with active Greek life and clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Home to advanced research in engineering and data science.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Strong alumni connections, especially in tech.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition; Illinois Commitment program.
- Unique Traditions: “Block I” student section and the annual Unofficial St. Patrick’s Day.
University of Iowa
- Location: Iowa City, IA – College town with a lively arts scene.
- Top Programs: Writing, Health Sciences, Engineering.
- Student Life: Known for arts, especially writing; student-run organizations.
- Notable Research/Resources: Acclaimed Iowa Writers’ Workshop.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Links with healthcare and publishing in the Midwest.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and merit-based scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: “Hawkeye Wave” at football games and the Riverbank Arts Festival.
University of Maryland, College Park
- Location: College Park, MD – Suburban campus close to Washington, D.C.
- Top Programs: Government, Computer Science, Business.
- Student Life: Active in policy and public service; numerous clubs.
- Notable Research/Resources: Leading cybersecurity and government research centers.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Access to D.C. internships in government and tech.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state benefits and merit scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: Annual “Maryland Day” and the Testudo mascot statue.
University of Minnesota
- Location: Twin Cities, MN – Urban campus with a strong local economy.
- Top Programs: Psychology, Business, Biological Sciences.
- Student Life: Wide-ranging student orgs, with a strong sports culture.
- Notable Research/Resources: Cutting-edge health and medical research.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Access to Minneapolis-St. Paul for jobs and internships.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and reciprocity agreements.
- Unique Traditions: “Goldy Gopher” and the campus-wide “Paint the Bridge” event.
University of Washington
- Location: Seattle, WA – Bustling city with a tech industry.
- Top Programs: Computer Science, Engineering, Biology.
- Student Life: Strong school spirit; outdoors and environmental focus.
- Notable Research/Resources: Leading research in tech and health sciences.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Links to Amazon, Microsoft, and other tech firms.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition discounts and the Husky Promise.
- Unique Traditions: The Cherry Blossom Festival and “Wave the W.”
University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Location: Madison, WI – Lakeside college town.
- Top Programs: Political Science, Biology, Engineering.
- Student Life: Active Greek life and clubs; known for spirited sports fans.
- Notable Research/Resources: Cutting-edge agricultural and environmental science.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Strong ties with Midwest companies.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition and Wisconsin Covenant scholarships.
- Unique Traditions: “Jump Around” at football games and “Freakfest” Halloween party.
University of California, Davis
- Location: Davis, CA – Known for agriculture and sustainability.
- Top Programs: Veterinary Medicine, Environmental Science, Agriculture.
- Student Life: Environmentally conscious; bike-friendly campus.
- Notable Research/Resources: Top agricultural research facilities.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to Sacramento and Bay Area.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits.
- Unique Traditions: Picnic Day and the “Whole Earth Festival.”
University of California, Irvine
- Location: Irvine, CA – Safe, suburban area near the coast.
- Top Programs: Biological Sciences, Engineering, Psychology.
- Student Life: Strong diversity and active commuter community.
- Notable Research/Resources: Research hubs in climate and neuroscience.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Access to Southern California tech and health industries.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state benefits and need-based aid.
- Unique Traditions: “Anteater” mascot and annual “Celebrate UCI” event.
University of California, San Diego
- Location: La Jolla, CA – Coastal and research-centered.
- Top Programs: Marine Biology, Engineering, Psychology.
- Student Life: Coastal, diverse, with an active surfing culture.
- Notable Research/Resources:Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Connections in biotech and healthcare in San Diego.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits.
- Unique Traditions: “Sun God Festival” and the La Jolla sea caves.
University of California, Santa Barbara
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA – Beachside campus.
- Top Programs: Environmental Science, Engineering, Sociology.
- Student Life: Surf culture with a laid-back vibe.
- Notable Research/Resources: Marine research and engineering labs.
- Career and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to Los Angeles for internships.
- Affordability & Financial Aid: In-state tuition benefits.
- Unique Traditions: Deltopia festival and UCSB’s famous campus lagoon.
Top Public Ivy Schools by Category
| Category | Top Public Ivies |
| Best for Research | University of California, Berkeley; University of Michigan; University of Washington |
| Top Business Programs | University of Michigan; Indiana University, Bloomington; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill |
| Best for STEM | University of California, Berkeley; University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; University of Texas at Austin |
| Best for Environmental Science | University of California, Davis; University of Vermont; University of Colorado, Boulder |
| Top Public Policy and Government | University of Virginia; University of Maryland, College Park; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill |
| Best Campus Experience | University of Wisconsin, Madison; University of Colorado, Boulder; University of Georgia |
| Best for Fine Arts and Performing Arts | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA); Indiana University, Bloomington; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill |
| Best for Pre-Med and Health Sciences | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; University of Washington; University of Florida |
| Best Alumni Networks | University of Michigan; University of California, Berkeley; Pennsylvania State University |
| Best for Technology and Innovation | University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; University of California, San Diego; University of Washington |
| Best for Agriculture and Life Sciences | University of California, Davis; University of Florida; Michigan State University |
| Best for Engineering | University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; Purdue University; University of California, Berkeley |
How the Public Ivies Compare with the Ivy League
Public Ivies and Ivy League schools both offer world-class academics, dedicated faculty, and strong alumni networks. While they share these qualities, there are areas where Ivy League schools stand out, and others where Public Ivies shine.
- Resources and Facilities: Ivy League schools generally have larger endowments, allowing them to fund cutting-edge facilities, substantial research, and extensive support programs. This can translate to more personalized services and high-quality resources for students. Public Ivies, though, also offer excellent research facilities and campus resources, especially at flagship campuses, often at a fraction of the cost.
- Prestige and Connections: Ivy League schools benefit from a historic reputation that carries global recognition, which can offer graduates an advantage in fields where name recognition matters, like finance and politics. However, many Public Ivies, such as the University of Michigan or UC Berkeley, have earned stellar reputations in specific fields, giving them industry-level prestige that can rival Ivy League programs.
- Affordability: One of the most significant distinctions is cost. Public Ivies, especially for in-state students, often provide an elite education with a much lower price tag. Ivy League schools, despite their high tuition, offer substantial financial aid packages, making them accessible for students from diverse income levels.
- Campus Experience: Public Ivies usually have larger campuses and student bodies, leading to a broader mix of experiences and activities, as well as more diversity in academic offerings. Ivy League campuses, by contrast, are smaller and may offer more tightly knit academic communities with lower student-to-faculty ratios, providing a more intimate learning environment.
- Admission and Selectivity: The Ivy League remains among the most selective in the world, which means students there are likely to be surrounded by peers with top academic records. Many Public Ivies also have competitive admissions, though some are more accessible, especially to in-state students, making them appealing for a wide range of high-achieving students.
In the end, Ivy League schools have undeniable advantages in resources and branding. But for students seeking quality education and value, the Public Ivies provide a compelling alternative, offering rich academic experiences, active campuses, and strong job prospects—all without the Ivy League price tag. For more, see our comparison of Ivy League schools vs. Public Ivies.
How Hard is it to Get into a Public Ivy?
Getting into a Public Ivy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some schools, like UC Berkeley and the University of Michigan, are highly selective, often admitting fewer than 20% of applicants. These schools look for top academic scores, leadership roles, and unique extracurriculars.
On the other hand, schools like Indiana University and the University of Arizona, while still strong academically, have acceptance rates over 80%. Across all Public Ivies, admissions teams want students with a solid mix of academics, involvement outside the classroom, and a clear sense of purpose. To stand out, students should show both high grades and a meaningful impact in their communities or activities.
Public Ivies Admission Stats, 2023-24
| Full Time Undergrads | SAT Avg | ACT Avg | Admit Rate | |
| University of California, Berkeley | 33,405 | 11.65 | ||
| University of Michigan | 33,730 | 17.94 | ||
| University of Virginia | 17,496 | 1450 | 33 | 18.66 |
| The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | 20,880 | 1420 | 30 | 18.74 |
| University of Florida | 34,924 | 1380 | 30 | 24.03 |
| University of California, San Diego | 33,792 | 24.76 | ||
| University of California, Irvine | 29,503 | 25.75 | ||
| University of California, Santa Barbara | 23,232 | 27.78 | ||
| The University of Texas at Austin | 42,444 | 1420 | 29.12 | |
| University of Georgia | 31,514 | 1310 | 29 | 37.19 |
| Binghamton University, State University of New York | 14,402 | 31 | 41.75 | |
| University of Washington | 39,125 | 42.53 | ||
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | 37,817 | 43.32 | ||
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | 35,564 | 1410 | 31 | 43.69 |
| University of Maryland, College Park | 30,608 | 44.84 | ||
| University of California, Davis | 31,162 | 46.32 | ||
| The Ohio State University at Columbus | 45,728 | 1340 | 29 | 50.82 |
| Penn State University Park | 42,223 | 54.22 | ||
| University of Connecticut | 18,983 | 29 | 54.51 | |
| University of Vermont | 11,898 | 1320 | 31 | 59.79 |
| University of Delaware | 19,119 | 63.56 | ||
| Rutgers University - New Brunswick | 36,588 | 65.35 | ||
| University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus | 39,556 | 1380 | 29 | 77.07 |
| Indiana University Bloomington | 36,833 | 1310 | 29 | 80.37 |
| Miami University | 16,478 | 1250 | 27 | 82.09 |
| The University of Iowa | 22,130 | 1240 | 26 | 84.67 |
| The University of Arizona | 42,075 | 1250 | 25 | 85.66 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | 32,100 | 1250 | 28 | 93.64 |
| Michigan State University | 40,483 | 1220 | 27 | |
| William & Mary | 6,963 |
Are Public Ivies Affordable?
Public Ivies offer real value, especially for in-state students. Reduced in-state tuition rates make these schools a smart option for families. For example, the University of Florida and the University of Georgia keep tuition low and provide generous state scholarships, like Florida’s “Bright Futures” and Georgia’s “HOPE.”
Many Public Ivies, such as the University of Virginia and UNC Chapel Hill, also offer strong financial aid to low- and middle-income families. Schools also offer merit scholarships to make tuition more manageable. Public Ivies balance cost and quality, offering students from various backgrounds a high-caliber education without the Ivy League price.
Cost and Aid at the Public Ivies, 2023-24
| Cost of Attendance (COA) In-State | COA Out-of-State | Avg Need-Based Award | Avg Merit Award | |
| University of Vermont | $36,802 | $63,544 | $29,671 | $17,289 |
| The University of Arizona | $26,210 | $50,628 | $19,678 | $12,787 |
| University of California, San Diego | $42,639 | $76,839 | $28,830 | $12,530 |
| University of Connecticut | $35,424 | $58,092 | $20,681 | $12,373 |
| William & Mary | $33,888 | $57,688 | $26,972 | $11,931 |
| Rutgers University - New Brunswick | $33,643 | $53,155 | $12,766 | $11,021 |
| Miami University | $31,692 | $53,908 | $17,765 | $10,391 |
| University of Delaware | $36,446 | $61,036 | $18,549 | $9,472 |
| Binghamton University, State University of New York | $31,172 | $51,252 | $15,002 | $9,256 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | $29,110 | $54,928 | $19,404 | $9,250 |
| University of California, Santa Barbara | $44,568 | $78,768 | $26,996 | $8,982 |
| University of California, Irvine | $42,044 | $76,244 | $26,607 | $8,127 |
| University of California, Berkeley | $44,454 | $78,655 | $31,559 | $7,862 |
| The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $42,365 | $61,022 | $17,528 | $7,689 |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | $30,008 | $61,106 | $20,697 | $7,224 |
| The Ohio State University at Columbus | $27,982 | $54,760 | $16,449 | $6,789 |
| University of Maryland, College Park | $31,730 | $61,108 | $13,412 | $6,733 |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | $26,028 | $44,000 | 19449 | $6,345 |
| The University of Iowa | $23,396 | $45,359 | $14,150 | $6,027 |
| Indiana University Bloomington | $24,842 | $53,534 | $14,753 | $5,955 |
| University of Virginia | $39,494 | $78,214 | $35,442 | $5,870 |
| University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus | $28,524 | $48,438 | $16,337 | $5,366 |
| University of California, Davis | $36,915 | $71,115 | $26,553 | $5,300 |
| Penn State University Park | $32,656 | $52,610 | $10,885 | $5,266 |
| Michigan State University | $28,559 | $54,455 | $16,453 | $4,547 |
| University of Michigan | $36,932 | $80,142 | $26,947 | $4,387 |
| University of Washington | $35,305 | $65,541 | $17,794 | $3,841 |
| University of Florida | $23,530 | $45,808 | $13,302 | $3,617 |
| University of Georgia | $28,682 | $49,708 | $14,282 | $3,437 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $31,616 | $59,544 | $19,550 | $3,406 |
Steps to Decide if a Public Ivy is Right for You
- Define Your Academic Goals: Identify your interests and see which Public Ivies excel in those areas. Many lead nationally in STEM, business, and liberal arts.
- Compare Costs: Check in-state and out-of-state tuition, plus available scholarships and aid. Public Ivies generally offer excellent value, especially for in-state students.
- Explore Campus Life: Look into the culture, clubs, and activities. Public Ivies usually have large, diverse student bodies—find a campus vibe that feels right.
- Check Alumni Connections: Many Public Ivies have active alumni networks that help with career paths after graduation. See where graduates work and live to get a sense of post-college opportunities.
- Gauge Admissions Selectivity: Review acceptance rates and average scores to see how you fit. Some Public Ivies, like UC Berkeley and Michigan, are very competitive; others have more accessible admissions.
- Visit, if You Can: Touring campuses can give you a real sense of each school’s energy and offerings. Being there in person often clarifies if a school feels like the right fit.
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Other Articles You Might Like:
The Hidden Ivies: Is One Right for You?
Can You Find Ivy League Quality as Non-Ivy League Schools?
Little Ivies: Admissions, Affordability, and How to Decide
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