Very often we hear the following sentence from our clients: “If I’m going to study abroad, only the best universities are worth considering.” It is natural to strive for the best. The fact is that prestigious universities attract the most capable, brightest, and best students, and due to the ambition of their peers, everyone is somehow encouraged to become even better. In addition, at such universities you will certainly build valuable connections and gain inspiration that you simply would not find elsewhere. However, what most people do not know is how difficult it actually is to get into such a university.
1. Which are the best universities in America?
Popular culture, media, and especially television have done their part, so from a young age we are familiar with universities such as Harvard, Yale, Stanford, MIT, or Princeton. They are mentioned in movies and TV series, and a degree from such a university is synonymous with success and prestigious careers. Although in recent years the term has been used as a synonym for all top American universities on both coasts, the Ivy League is a group of eight academically and socially most prestigious universities in the United States, located in the northeast, along with their athletic associations. The name literally translates to “ivy association,” where ivy symbolically represents tradition and heritage.
It was formally established in 1956, but informally dates back to the 1870s. These are the oldest and wealthiest private universities in the United States. The Ivy League includes eight universities on the East Coast: Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, UPenn, Princeton, and Yale. All of these universities share many similarities—from a rich academic history and graduates with outstanding achievements to athletic rivalries and debates over which school is more exclusive. Their students have influenced American lifestyle and behavior (the so-called Ivy League style), but even more important is their strong, almost “caste-like” network and influence in business, politics, and society.
In American English, the term Ivy League signifies academic prestige, higher education, and social elitism. It is often also used more broadly to refer to top-ranked universities in the world.
The Ivy League universities are:
Brown University (Providence)
Columbia University (New York)
Cornell University (Ithaca, New York)
Dartmouth College (New Hampshire)
Harvard University (Massachusetts)
University of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania)
Yale University (Connecticut)
Princeton University (New Jersey)
Advantages of enrolling in top American universities
2.1. Top-tier resources
Ivy League universities have the strongest financial resources in the United States. Each of these universities can afford to generously fund research for professors and students, maintain exceptionally well-equipped libraries, and provide IT support that enables students to launch high-level academic projects or even small startups, thanks to their substantial endowments.
2.2. Competitiveness and excellence of professors and students
Since these universities employ leading experts and admit top students from around the world, students are constantly surrounded by positive competition and are highly motivated to learn and improve. Every Ivy League student not only has excellent academic results but is also typically engaged in extracurricular activities and actively contributes to their community. Therefore, studying at these universities is an exceptionally rich academic and social experience.
2.3. Strong networking opportunities – a launchpad for your career
Graduates of each university form an alumni network that goes far beyond simple connections. The power of these networks is one of the strongest advantages of Ivy League universities, as alumni connections often provide first job experiences during or after studies. These universities are also known for strong alumni support systems. This means that after graduation, you don’t just have a top education—you become part of an elite global network.
Maintaining relationships with Ivy League alumni can significantly influence your career and life. Students use this network to find internships that can lead to employment opportunities even before graduation. Attending an Ivy League university can therefore give you a competitive edge and provide access to top companies, banks, and institutions.
3. Admission process for top universities in the USA
The admission process for US universities has always been complex and lengthy (more on this in our blog “How to study in the USA”). Given the global reputation of these institutions, it is clear that ambitious students from around the world apply to them. As a result, the top 30 universities in the US receive tens of thousands of applications each year (30,000–50,000).
Admission requirements are extremely demanding and rigorous. Acceptance rates are only 3–7%, depending on the university and year. You are expected to have top grades, completed high school (with final exams submitted later if needed), excellent SAT/ACT and TOEFL results, strong recommendation letters, and outstanding performance in your motivation letter and interview.
3.1. Regular Decision
The Regular Decision deadline is usually around New Year or January (though it varies). By this date, you must submit all documents and pay the application fee (usually around $100 per application). You can apply to up to 20 universities. Results are announced in March, along with financial aid information. If waitlisted, final decisions may come between May and July.
3.2. Early Decision
Some universities offer Early Decision (Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, UPenn) or Early Action (Harvard, Princeton, Yale). Deadlines are usually in October or early November, with results in December.
Early Decision allows you to apply to only one university and is binding—if accepted with adequate financial aid, you must enroll. Early Action is non-binding, meaning you can still consider other options. Only top candidates are admitted early, but waitlists exist. If placed on a waitlist, reapplying is usually unnecessary—just confirm your continued interest.
3.3. Recent changes in the admission process
In recent years, especially due to COVID, there have been significant changes. Universities temporarily removed standardized test requirements (SAT, ACT, TOEFL, Duolingo), allowing applications based only on school transcripts and documents. This made applications easier and cheaper, leading to a surge in applications and lower acceptance rates—especially for international students.
Test centers have since reopened, and many universities are returning to requiring standardized test results. It is therefore essential to carefully check current requirements.
3.4. Decline in accepted international students
With more applications overall, competition increased. Many international applicants applied without test scores, while US students often still submitted them, giving them an advantage. As a result, the percentage of accepted international students decreased.
4. How do athletes get into top US universities?
Ivy League universities have a specific system for student-athletes. High-performing athletes may be recommended by coaches, but the admissions committee makes the final decision. Communication between athlete and coach is crucial. Coaches may advocate for candidates, sometimes helping slightly ease academic expectations—but this should not be relied upon.
Importantly, Ivy League universities do not offer athletic scholarships. Financial aid is not tied to athletic performance, so losing the ability to compete does not affect funding.
5. Cost of studying and financial aid
The annual cost of studying at Ivy League universities is typically between $70,000 and $80,000, including tuition and additional fees (housing, insurance, books, etc.).
However, these universities also offer some of the most generous financial aid packages, often covering nearly 100% of costs. There are also many other US universities offering similar opportunities, though admission remains highly competitive.
6. How to prepare effectively?
6.1. Research thoroughly and plan every step
To get into a top university, every step must be carefully planned. Excellent academic performance is only the baseline—you need much more to stand out. Start early, ideally well before your final year of high school.
6.2. Strengthen your application
Being well-rounded is more important than ever. You must present yourself as a complete person—not just grades and scores. This is achieved through a strong motivation letter, compelling application answers, extracurricular activities, and clear future goals. Universities prefer candidates who aim to contribute to society, not just personal success.
6.3. Seek help if needed
These universities are among the most selective in the world. Even with strong motivation, the process can be long, stressful, and overwhelming. With proper guidance and structured support, you can significantly increase your chances and reduce stress.
Finally, remember: if you succeed in gaining admission and financial aid, all your effort and investment will be rewarded many times over—through knowledge, experience, opportunities, connections, and a powerful network that will shape your future.
References:
- Encyclopedia, online edition. Miroslav Krleža Institute of Lexicography, 2021. Accessed July 28, 2022. <http://www.enciklopedija.hr/Natuknica.aspx?ID=28256>
