What Are Ivy League Universities?

Details: Ivy League

One must be familiar with names like “Yale” and “Harvard”, But are you familiar with Ivy League Universities? 

In simple terms it can be said that Ivy League Universities are some of the most prestigious Universities in the world. Most of them draw their roots from colonial times. This term usually becomes a synonym for America’s  best Universities.Though this term started as a “mockery” but gradually its significance and symbolism resulted in its renouncement. Most of the Universities being established during the colonial time, portrays the fact that these Universities are even older than the constitutionalised "America" .But before delving deep into this discussion, let's first understand What is Ivy League?

What is the Ivy League?

The term “Ivy League” was in practice during the 1930s but made its official status during the year 1954. Ivy League is a sports conference, held in an American province between the 8 private universities which come under its labels. This whole sports competition has its roots way back in the historic time even before the Declaration of Indepence of America, where the so-called “rivalry” existed between the elite universities. Although this group of Universities came into being to strengthen the sporting and athletic ties between member colleges, in today’s time these Ivy League Universities not only stand for academic excellence but also for social prestige. 

Top Universities under IVY League 

Ivy League Universities are regarded as some of the most prestigious and elitist Universities in the world. Seven of the Eight Universities were founded during America's Colonial period and are not just highly renowned Institutes but also classical for their academic excellence.  

These eight private universities are known for their highly selective admissions process, their great academic excellence and a promising career option and opportunity for their students. 

The eight Universities are as follows:

1. Harvard University - This University was founded in the year 1636 and is situated in Cambridge ,Massachusetts.

2. Yale University - This University was founded in the year 1701 and is situated in New Haven Connecticut.

3. Princeton University - This University was founded in the year 1746 and is situated in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

4. Columbia University - This University was founded in the year 1754 and is situated in New York.

5. Brown University - This University was founded in the year 1764 and is situated in Rhode Island.

6. Dartmouth College - This University was founded in the year 1769 and is situated in Hanover, New Hampshire.

7. University of Pennsylvania - This University was founded in the year 1740 and is situated in Philadelphia,Pennsylvania.

8. Cornell University - This University was founded in the year 1865 and is situated in Ithaca, New York.

What makes Ivy Universities different from other Universities?

There are many great Universities in the world but still Ivy Universities are considered somewhat different. This is not because of their “brand value” but also because of their academic excellence.They foster excellent talents from all across the world. They have left an imprint because of their history, old tradition and ethics.  They provide exceptional professional career options be it in the field of Law, Medicine, Business or Engineering. 

Admission Criteria

Before applying to these Universities one must keep in mind the eligibility criteria. Being the most prestigious universities in the world, their selection process is also very efficient.

The admission process is very competitive and the competition is very high in these Universities. Because thousands of students enroll for these Universities but very few have the privilege to attend them.

The scores for SAT, GRE, LSAT and GPA matter a lot in these universities. They not only deal with academic curriculum but also hold extra-curricular activities and achievements in consideration while conducting admissions. Approximately 15,000 students are admitted every year, but due to its high demand its acceptancy rate is gradually decreasing. 

Conclusion

Thus, these Universities are highly acclaimed in their field of expertise. And if you wish to attend any of these elitist universities, then gear up and be ready for the voyage. Getting admitted in these Universities won't just provide name recognition and social prestige but also open varied channels for you. With the best faculty,infrastructures and esteemed names you will be given a chance to explore different fields.