• USA

Ivy League Universities in USA: Admissions, Requirements and Fees

9483 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Feb 09,2024 05:10 PM IST

Explore the most prestigious Ivy League Universities in the USA, learn how to get admission into these universities, admission requirements, and most importantly, tuition fees and accommodation to the USA for international students. Most international students prefer to study in the USA for advanced learning and better career prospects. Ivy League universities open paths to massive packages for students.

USA is considered to be a Land of Opportunity for international students aspiring to study abroad. The Ivy League is a group of eight private universities in the United States that are considered the oldest and most prestigious in the country. Pursuing higher education in one the prestigious Ivy League Universities in the USA offers amazing career opportunities. However, getting admission in one of these universities is quite competitive.

This blog will help aspiring students turn their dreams into reality. It presents a comprehensive guide to Ivy League universities in the USA, requirements, fees, and much more.

Meaning of Ivy Leagues

Beginning with the definition of the Ivy League, the NCAA Athletic Conference for Division I was established in 1954, which is when the term "Ivy League" first appeared. The Ivy League is an athletic conference for intercollegiate American football and other sports that consists of several north-eastern colleges and universities, including Harvard, Yale, Pennsylvania, Columbia Dartmouth, Princeton, Brown, and Cornell.

Ivy League Universities in the USA

Ivy League universities are one of the reasons why international students aspire to study in the USA. The Ivy League consists of eight of the most prestigious and oldest universities in the United States. They were founded in 1954 on a shared interest in sports, nearly eighty years ago, and represent much more than royalty.

Today, these universities are well-known for their academic excellence, global prestige, and large alumni base, which can provide good mentorship as well as job opportunities if needed. According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, there are around eight Ivy League institutes. The global status of Ivy League universities cannot be easily matched by other universities in the USA. Numerous major reasons behind its high popularity among other countries made the USA a top study destination.

List of Ivy League Universities in the USA

Ivy League universities in the USA consistently rank higher nationally and globally, making them the desired choices for international students aspiring to study abroad. For Indian students, it is nothing short of their version of the Americans dream to get admission to these prestigious universities. The following list presents the eight Ivy League Universities in the USA.

ivy league universities in usa.webp

Admission Requirements for Ivy League Universities

Surprisingly, the admission requirements for Ivy League universities are similar for international students and Americans. The admission process is highly competitive in these universities offering a variety of courses in different course levels such as undergraduate, Post-graduate, and even doctorate degrees. However, the requirements and application process depends on the chosen program and university. The following tables briefly represent the basic admission requirements of Ivy League Universities

Admission requirements	Description
Excellent academics	To get admission to Ivy League universities, it is important to have excellent academics. Students with high scores in academics are preferred more than other students who have low scores.
Standardized test scores	Students need to score well in standardized exams like the GMAT, and GRE to fulfil the requirements of the admission process to these prestigious universities. In the absence of GMAT or GRE scores, universities may ask students to appear in other similar exams.
Language proficiency tests	Students must have high scores in the Language proficiency tests like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, Duolingo, etc.
Letter of recommendation	The admission process requires an impactful letter of recommendation.
Impactful essay	A genuine and impactful essay plays an important role in the admission process.
Proof of finance	Students must provide financial proof to ensure that they can afford the education expense.
Valid passport and Visa for international students	Students must hold a valid passport to study in the USA. International students are required to apply for an international study visa (F-1 visa) to study in the USA.

To learn more about the admission process, contact Canam to resolve issues related to studying in the USA.

How to apply for an Ivy League university?

The US is the first preferred study abroad destination for Indian students. Indian students constitute more than 25 percent of the one million+ foreign students studying in the United States. But, getting into Ivy League university is a highly competitive and challenging process. However, with dedication, careful planning, and the right approach, Indian students can grab their seats in the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

How to apply for ivy league university.webp

Here is a step-by-step guide for Indian students to get admission into an Ivy League university:

1. Students should prepare for the application process a year before and keep visiting their website for updates.

2. To secure a seat in Ivy League university, students should maintain their academics to score a high CGPA/GPA.

3. Students should take Standardized exams like GMAT and GRE and get good scores because most universities ask for these test scores.

4. Indian students must demonstrate their English proficiency through language proficiency exams like IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL.

5. Students should participate in extracurricular activities to create a strong profile.

6. Build strong relationships with teachers and mentors to get a compelling Letter of recommendation.

7. Students must write an impactful essay with genuine thoughts and aspirations to study in Ivy League universities.

8. Students should conduct self-research on Ivy League Universities to learn about admission requirements, fees, culture, accommodations, and student life.

9. International students can also apply for Scholarships in the USA.

10. Students must prepare for common questions related to career goals and experiences that can be asked in interviews. As part of the admission process, students must perform well in personal interviews to get into these universities.

11. Students must pay attention to meeting the university’s deadline for the application process.

12. Consider working with guidance from Canam experts especially for international applications and accommodations.

Tuition fees in Ivy League Universities

The Ivy League universities are known to be world’s most expensive universities in the USA. But, the results are equally massive packages in the world’s top firms. Investing in these universities is worth it to achieve huge packages while doing the dream job. The below table shows the fee comparison of Ivy League universities in the USA.

Name of Universities	Tuition fees (Approximately)
Brown University	$41,000- $42,000
Columbia university	$43,000- $44,000
Cornell University	$40,325- $41,325
Dartmouth University	$39,000- $40,000
Harvard University	$36,000- $37,000
Princeton University	$37,000- $38,000
University of Pennsylvania	$27,000- $28,000
Yale University	$33,000- $34,000

Apart from these, there are other expenses such as accommodation costs, food, transport, etc. For international students, it is quite challenging to accommodate American living while studying in the USA. Students should keep an eye on the budget while buying anything. It became important for international students to understand the do’s and don’ts of studying abroad.

Conclusion

The Ivy League signifies high-quality education from reputed faculty, experimental learning, and exceptional research opportunities. These universities have high tuition fees, which result in huge packages in the USA. Apart from educational expenses, international students must know how to manage the cost of living while studying in the USA. To make the application process easy, students must speak to expert counsellors at CANAM for the best guidance to begin their academic journey.

FAQ

Is the SAT required for admission to Ivy League institutions?

All Ivy League universities require SAT or ACT scores. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, some universities have made tests optional. Please check the latest policies on the university's website.

What exactly constitutes an Ivy League university in the United States?

Ivy League universities include Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University.

Is it better to go to Oxford or Harvard?

Harvard is ranked second in National Universities, first in Global Universities by US News, and first by the Round University Ranking, while Oxford is ranked first in Best Global Universities in Europe, fifth in Best Global Universities by US News, and second by QS World University Rankings.

How do you get into the Ivy League?

Below are the general admission requirements at Ivy League Universities

• Excellent academic transcripts for all classes from 9th grade and up.

• GMAT/GRE/ACT/SAT standardised test scores are exceptional.

• High TOEFL/IELTS scores demonstrate English language proficiency.

• Recommended Letters.

• Effective essays.

• Proof of Finance

How can students plan to study in the United States?

Students must apply for a student visa to study and select a course and university. Check out this blog for more information on studying in the United States.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

South Dakota State University

South Dakota, USA • 120 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 12600-13000 / year

Shorelight Group - University of Wisconsin - Whitewater

Wisconsin, USA • 88 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 19000-19500 / year

UP Education - Yoobee College of Creative Innovation - Christchurch Campus

Christchurch, New Zealand • 14 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 0-0 / year

Shorelight Group - Lakeland University

Wisconsin, USA • 31 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 31000-32000 / year

Flinders University - Bedford Park Campus

South Australia, Australia • 36 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 0-0 / year

Menlo College

California, USA • 8 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 52000-52700 / year

Oxford Brookes University - Headington Campus

England, UK • 248 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 14000-17000 / year

ICN Business School - Paris Campus

Paris, France • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9000-9200 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Study In Australia and New Zealand : Diplomas, Degrees, Pathways and Scholarships

Study in Australia, New Zealand • Webinar

11:00AM

Virtual Event

University Visits - Mount Saint Vincent University

Study in Canada • University Visit

Hyderabad • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

Study Abroad Application Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland, France

Nawanshahr • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Canada vs Australia: Which Country is Better for Indian Students in 2025?

Human life is filled with making choices every day. In 10th grade, we choose between arts and commerce, after 12th grade, the college, but those were ...

Updated on • Jul 05,2025 12:41 PM IST • Education

France vs Germany: Which Is Better for International Students?

In 2024, many vintage study destinations, including the Big 4, saw a drop in international enrolment, and this trend continues till this year. This le...

Updated on • Jun 30,2025 05:15 PM IST • Education

Top 10 Agricultural Universities in USA

Agriculture or farming is not merely the growing of crops or taking care of animals, but it’s the largest contributor (27%) to global employment. It...

Updated on • Jun 27,2025 05:25 PM IST • USA

Most In-Demand Future Careers in 2025

The world of work is changing faster than ever. Technology, climate change, aging populations, and space exploration are creating jobs we’ve never s...

Updated on • Jun 26,2025 04:41 PM IST • Education

How Much Do Nurses Make in the U.S.?

Do you also think, “How much is the salary of a nurse in the USA?”. If yes, then you are not alone. Being one of the noblest professions in the wo...

Updated on • Jun 23,2025 03:59 PM IST • USA

Study MBBS in the USA

There are innumerable professions, but a career in MBBS is respected and admired more than any other line of work. Many of us harbour a drea...

Updated on • Jun 21,2025 02:00 PM IST • USA

MBA in UK: Universities, Eligibility, Types, and Career Opportunities

Master of Business Administration from UK is a prestigious academic degree, especially when gained from the UK. Business schools in the UK are well kn...

Updated on • Jun 19,2025 04:09 PM IST • UK • study in the UK

Highest Paying Jobs in the World

With super-advanced technologies like AI entering every field, the assumptions are high that the job roles that exist today won't exist after some yea...

Updated on • Jun 10,2025 01:08 PM IST • Study Abroad

Scholarships in France for Indian Students

Are you planning to study in France but are scared of the expensive tuition fees? But now there is no need to fear because you can take advantage of F...

Updated on • May 29,2025 05:22 PM IST • France

Intakes in Dubai for Indian Students

World-class universities, a multicultural environment and tax-free earnings are some of the benefits that attract Indian students to Dubai. However, i...

Updated on • May 27,2025 03:34 PM IST • Study in Dubai

France Student Visa 2025 – Requirements, Fees, Checklist & Application Process

Imagine this: Today is the day you will sit for your dream job interview. You practised all possible questions, wore formal attire, and collected all ...

Updated on • May 23,2025 03:36 PM IST • France

MBA in France for Indian Students in 2025

MBA is one of the most sought-after master’s programs worldwide. France is increasingly becoming popular as an overseas education destination. The r...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:35 PM IST • France

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:31 PM IST • PTE

PTE Accepting Universities In USA

PTE stands among the most popular English language proficiency exams accepted by various institutions worldwide. Students applying to study in the USA...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:24 PM IST • USA

MBBS in UK: Colleges, Fees, Eligibility and Scholarships

Starting a medical journey is a great choice, and pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in the United Kingdom adds an extra la...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:13 PM IST • UK

MBBS in Australia: Top Universities, Syllabus, Cost of Study, Eligibility, Scholarships & Jobs

Medical studies have taken the world by storm with its increasing popularity. The majority of international students prefer to study this course in Au...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:53 PM IST • Australia

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:36 PM IST • Study in Germany

Best Medical Colleges in USA

You looking for medical colleges in the USA is clear evidence that it is the best country to pursue medical courses. One of the most sought-after medi...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:20 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in New Zealand for International Students

Many students aspire to live and work in a country like New Zealand. And why not? Alongside its stunning scenery and vibrant culture, New Zealand is a...

Updated on • May 22,2025 01:03 PM IST • New Zealand

High Paying Jobs in Germany

Germany, a powerhouse of innovation and industry, offers a fantastic job market with excellent salaries and a strong work-life balance. Whether you're...

Updated on • May 22,2025 11:11 AM IST • Study in Canada

Ivy League Universities in USA: Admissions, Requirements and Fees

Table of Contents

Meaning of Ivy Leagues

Ivy League Universities in the USA

List of Ivy League Universities in the USA

Admission Requirements for Ivy League Universities

How to apply for an Ivy League university?

Tuition fees in Ivy League Universities

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams