Ivy League Colleges in the USA: Dreams, Majors, Admissions, and Life

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The Ivy League is a group of eight private universities in the northeastern United States, famous for their academic excellence, history, and prestige. For many American students, getting into an Ivy League college is a dream they work towards for years. But what exactly does it take to get there? What can you study? How much does it cost? And what does life look like once you are in?

Let’s walk through the full journey.

What Are the Ivy League Schools?

Here are the eight Ivy League universities:

  • Harvard University (Massachusetts)
  • Yale University (Connecticut)
  • Princeton University (New Jersey)
  • Columbia University (New York)
  • University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) (Pennsylvania)
  • Brown University (Rhode Island)
  • Dartmouth College (New Hampshire)
  • Cornell University (New York)

Each of these colleges has its own vibe and strengths, but all of them offer world-class education, strong alumni networks, and many opportunities for students.

Most Popular Majors and Top Programs

While all Ivy League colleges offer a broad range of programs, some majors are especially strong and famous at certain schools:

  • Harvard: Economics, Political Science, Law, Business
  • Yale: Arts and Humanities, Political Science, History, Drama
  • Princeton: Mathematics, Physics, Public Policy, Engineering
  • Columbia: Journalism, Creative Writing, Political Science
  • UPenn: Business (Wharton School is world-famous), Economics, Nursing
  • Brown: Liberal Arts, Creative Writing, Computer Science
  • Dartmouth: Government, Environmental Studies, Liberal Arts
  • Cornell: Engineering, Hotel Administration, Agriculture, Architecture

Students choose Ivies not just for a major, but also for the environment, research opportunities, and future career connections.

How to Get Into an Ivy League School

Getting into an Ivy League college is extremely competitive. Acceptance rates at most Ivies range from 3% to 8%, depending on the year and the school.

Here’s the basic path:

1. Strong Academic Record

You need excellent high school grades. Most successful applicants are at the top 5% of their class. Challenging coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes is a big plus.

2. High Standardized Test Scores

Although many Ivies are now “test-optional” (meaning you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores), good scores still help. Typical accepted students have:

  • SAT: 1450–1600
  • ACT: 32–36

Other tests like AP Exams or SAT Subject Tests (earlier) also strengthen your application.

3. Extracurricular Excellence

Ivy League schools look for students who do more than study. Leadership in clubs, sports, volunteer work, music, debate, research projects — all these show that you’re well-rounded and passionate.

4. Strong Essays and Recommendations

Personal essays are extremely important. They show who you are beyond your grades. Good recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors also make a difference.

5. Application through Common App

Almost all Ivy League colleges use the Common Application. You’ll fill out your profile, upload transcripts, submit essays, and request recommendation letters through it.

6. Interviews

Some Ivies may invite you to an interview with an alumni member. It’s a friendly chat but still part of the evaluation process.

Expenses: What Does It Cost to Attend an Ivy?

Studying at an Ivy League college is expensive. Here’s an average annual cost:

  • Tuition and fees: $60,000 – $65,000
  • Living expenses (housing, food, etc.): $20,000 – $25,000
  • Books and supplies: $1,000 – $2,000
  • Personal expenses and transportation: $2,000 – $4,000

Total cost per year = around $85,000 to $95,000.

But here’s the good news: Ivy League schools have some of the best financial aid programs in the world. If your family income is under a certain amount (often under $75,000–$100,000), you might pay very little or even nothing. They offer need-based financial aid, not based on your grades but your family’s ability to pay.

Student Loans and Financial Help

If financial aid does not cover everything, students can apply for federal student loans like:

Most students first accept scholarships and grants, then use federal loans, and only then take private loans if needed. Ivy students often graduate with less debt than students at other colleges because of strong aid programs.

Study Schedule and Academic Life

Life at an Ivy League college is intense. Classes are challenging, and professors expect you to think critically, question ideas, and be active learners.

A typical study schedule includes:

Students usually spend 2–3 hours studying outside class for every hour inside class. Time management becomes very important.

Most Ivy students also join clubs, sports, and volunteer activities, making their schedules packed but exciting.

Out-of-Campus Work Opportunities

U.S. citizens can work part-time while studying. Students can:

Typical on-campus jobs pay $12–$18 an hour.

During summer vacations, many Ivy students do internships in companies, research labs, non-profits, or startups, especially in big cities like New York, Boston, or Philadelphia. These internships can be paid or unpaid but are valuable for building careers.

Final Thoughts

Getting into an Ivy League school is not just about perfect grades or test scores — it’s about showing who you are, what you love, and what you can bring to the community. Once you’re there, life will be busy, challenging, but also full of amazing experiences, friendships, and opportunities.

For any hardworking student, the doors to the Ivy League are open. It takes time, planning, and effort, but the reward is truly worth it.