Looking for the best non-Ivy League schools in the United States? While Ivy League universities often get the spotlight, many non-Ivy League schools offer world-class programs, excellent faculty, and outstanding career opportunities. From UCLA to NYU, these schools combine prestige, strong academics, and a competitive student life, making them top choices for ambitious students seeking a high-quality education without the Ivy League label. This guide highlights the top non-Ivy League schools you should consider for your college journey.
Best Non-Ivy League Schools in the US
The following content provides a detailed comparison of top universities and liberal arts colleges, highlighting their rankings, acceptance rates, tuition costs, and key strengths to help you find the right fit for your academic and career goals.
| Top Non-Ivy League School: Overview | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| School | US News 2025 Rank | Acceptance Rate | Tuition (2025–26, USD) | Notes |
| UCLA | 19 | 14% | $14,200 (in-state), $44,200 (out-of-state) | Public university; highly ranked in STEM, arts, and social sciences |
| Stanford University | 2 | 3.9% | $65,910 | Private; known for engineering, business, and entrepreneurship |
| University of Chicago | 6 | 4.8% | $71,325 | Private; strong in economics, business, and social sciences |
| Caltech | 8 | 3.1% | $65,898 | Private; top in engineering, physics, and computer science |
| Northwestern University | 32 | 7% | $68,322 | Private; strong in journalism, engineering, and business |
| Bowdoin College | 9 (LAC) | 7% | $63,000 (approx.) | Private liberal arts college; known for small classes and humanities |
| Swarthmore College | 3 (LAC) | 7.5% | $60,000 (approx.) | Private liberal arts; strong in social sciences and engineering |
| Vanderbilt University | 18 | 6.7% | $69,400 | Private; strong in medicine, business, and humanities |
1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
If you’re looking for a school that prioritizes diversity, academic excellence, and real-world opportunities, UCLA is one of the best non-ivy league colleges. It houses popular majors like Social Sciences, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Psychology, and Engineering, so you’ll definitely find a program that fits your interests and goals while being part of a dynamic community that celebrates individuality and collaboration.
The interesting part is that academically, UCLA shines as it has produced 16 Nobel Laureates and 17 MacArthur Fellows. This showcases the caliber of education and mentorship available to you.
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #15 out of 436 National Universities. |
| Acceptance Rate | 9% |
| Graduation Rate | 91.4% |
| Average SAT/ACT | Not needed for admission |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 33,040 enrollment in fall 2023 |
2. Stanford University
Imagine stepping into a place where dreams take shape and ideas come to life. Stanford University, founded in 1885, is one of the best non-Ivy schools in California. With around 8,054 students enrolled, it’s a vibrant community filled with people from all over the globe.
Do you know that Stanford isn’t just any university? It’s also a leading research and teaching institution that focuses on making the world better. Whether you’re passionate about medicine, law, the arts, engineering, or sustainability, Stanford has everything you need to explore and grow in your chosen field. There are 15 institutes where students and faculty collaborate on groundbreaking research. With a massive budget of $1.98 billion for sponsored research, the university is dedicated to finding solutions for real-world challenges. Plus, its 20 libraries hold over 12 million items, ensuring you have all the resources you need at your fingertips.
| Location | Stanford, California |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #4 out of 436 National Universities |
| Acceptance Rate | 3.7% |
| Graduation Rate | 95.2% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1470-1570 SAT, 34-35 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 8,054 undergraduate students in the fall of 2023 |
3. University of Chicago
While the University of Chicago may not have the Ivy League label, it boasts a remarkable legacy of success, including more than 90 Nobel Prize winners. This is a place where you can truly thrive academically and personally, all while being part of a unique and dynamic community.
There are a lot of reasons why this university is one of the top non-Ivy League schools. First, research is a big deal there. The university is known for making groundbreaking discoveries and shaping new fields of study. If you’re passionate about subjects like Cancer Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ecology and Evolution, Endocrinology, Genetics, Global Health Services, Immunology, or other science and humanity courses, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get involved in cutting-edge research alongside world-class faculty.
| Location | Chicago |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #11 out of 436 National Universities |
| Acceptance Rate | 7% |
| Graduation Rate | 96.1% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1510-1580 SAT, 33-35 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 8,300 |
4. Caltech
If you’re dreaming of a career in science or engineering, you should definitely consider Caltech. Caltech is one of those best non-Ivy league colleges known for academic rigor. Do you know that it’s home to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the leading center for robotic space exploration in the U.S.? That’s how incredibly rich this university is.
Here, students have countless opportunities to get involved in groundbreaking research, whether during the school year or in the summer. You’ve got the brightest minds in each field to guide you through your studies tackling fundamental scientific questions and real-world challenges plus you’ll be surrounded by innovative tools and technologies. Furthermore, since the school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, you’ll get plenty of personal attention and guidance from professors who are leaders in their fields.
| Location | Pasadena, United States |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #6 out of 436 National Universities. |
| Acceptance Rate | 7% |
| Graduation Rate | 91.6% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1530-1580 SAT, 35-36 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 900 |
5. Northwestern University
Another good non-Ivy League college to check out is Northwestern University. The school truly combines a strong academic reputation with a vibrant community. You can choose from 112 different undergraduate degrees, but it’s especially known for its journalism program. With famous alumni like Pulitzer Prize winner Lisa Gartner and the author of Game of Thrones, George R. R. Martin, you’ll be inspired by those who came before you. The university’s commitment to research is impressive too, with over 90 school-based centers and 35 university research centers dedicated to groundbreaking work in areas like neuroscience, biotechnology, and drug discovery.
| Location | Evanston, United States |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #6 out of 436 National Universities |
| Acceptance Rate | 8% |
| Graduation Rate | 94.9% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1470-1570 SAT, 34-35 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 9,900 |
6. Bowdoin College
You can’t count the number of good colleges that are not Ivy League and not mention Bowdoin College. It’s more than just a school but also a community that believes in using education to make a positive impact on the world. Some of the courses offered include political science, econometrics, and biology, but the emphasis is on the liberal arts—where students are encouraged to explore various fields and develop a well-rounded perspective. One of the standout features of Bowdoin is its need-blind admission policy, meaning that financial circumstances won’t determine whether you can attend the school or not.
| Location | Brunswick, ME |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #5 out of 211 National Liberal Arts Colleges |
| Acceptance Rate | 9% |
| Graduation Rate | 95% |
| Average SAT | 1330-1510 |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 1,800 |
7. Swarthmore College
Swarthmore College is one of the best non-Ivy League colleges because it provides a unique and welcoming place to learn. You have access to a rich curriculum with over 600 courses across a variety of fields including humanities, performing arts, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and many more. The college is essentially known for its strong academic programs, which prepare students to think critically and creatively.
One of the things you stand to enjoy at Swarthmore is the tranquility of nature. Its 425-acre arboretum is filled with rolling lawns, a creek, wooded hills, and hiking trails. That explains why it’s usually called the most beautiful in the universe.
| Location | Swarthmore, PA |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #3 out of 211 National Liberal Arts Colleges |
| Acceptance Rate | 8% |
| Graduation Rate | 94% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1430-1560 SAT, 33-35 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 1600 |
8. Vanderbilt University
There are lots of best colleges that are not Ivy League and Vanderbilt University is definitely one of them. This school is known for providing a welcoming community for students pursuing their dreams in diverse fields. There are over 70 undergraduate majors to choose from, so you’ll find surely which field to explore your interests and develop your skills. However, Vanderbilt is known for its strong undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences. Additionally, it boasts highly regarded graduate and professional schools, including the School of Medicine, Law School, and Owen Graduate School of Management.
| Location | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #18 out of 436 National Universities |
| Acceptance Rate | 7% |
| Graduation Rate | 92.8% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1480-1570 SAT, 34-35 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 7,200 |
Best non-Ivy League With The Highest Acceptance Rate
1. Carleton College
If you’re looking for one of the best universities in USA, not Ivy League but with a high acceptance rate, check out Carleton College. The school’s liberal approach to teaching is highly commendable as it inspires students to develop critical skills like problem-solving, creativity, and communication. No doubt that this approach prepares students to thrive in a wide variety of fields.
You’ll also be in good hands with the professors as they are not only experts in their fields but are also passionate about teaching. Rest assured that no classes are taught by teaching assistants which leaves the student-faculty ratio at 9:1. With this, Carleton students get plenty of one-on-one time with their instructors, making for a more personalized and supportive academic experience.
| Location | Northfield, MN |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #8 out of 211 National Liberal Arts Colleges |
| Acceptance Rate | 20% |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1320-1530 SAT, 30-34 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 2,000 |
2. University of Michigan
Since its founding in 1817, the University of Michigan has remained one of the top 50 non-Ivy League colleges in the U.S. Now, it is ranked 19 in Best Global Universities. In fact, it’s one of the oldest and most respected public research universities in the world. The school has greatly earned a reputation for its commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and vibrant campus life. As a student, you’ll have access to world-class professors and cutting-edge research facilities, which will enable you to thrive across a wide range of fields.
Also, beyond academics, the campus is alive with a deep tradition in sports, arts, and a strong sense of community.
| Location | Ann Arbor |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #19 in Best Global Universities |
| Acceptance Rate | 17.7% |
| Graduation Rate | 93.3% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1340-1520 SAT, 30-34 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 32,200 |
3. Haverford College
If you’re on the lookout for a close-knit intellectual community, Haverford College is there for you. Located on a peaceful 200-acre campus. This college draws students who are naturally curious, independent, and eager to see and improve the world in new ways. Do you know that you’ll get personal attention from the professors? It’s such an amazing way to get a hands-on experience in your discipline.
Also, you’ll enjoy the campus’s serene and lively outlook. Since campus life balances academic rigor with rich extracurricular opportunities, students are opportuned to pursue sports, arts, and more without losing sight of their identities.
When you apply, rest assured that each application is reviewed with exceptional care, ensuring every student’s unique potential is recognized.
| Location | Haverford, PA |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #24 on the Liberal Arts Colleges list. |
| Acceptance Rate | 15% |
| Graduation Rate | 92.3% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1420-1540 SAT, 33-35 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 1,400 |
4. Wesleyan University
Wesleyan University is another incredible college worth checking out. The school is popular for its innovative and flexible curriculum, where students are encouraged to think creatively and take intellectual risks. The most amazing part is that with a 7:1 student-faculty ratio, students benefit from small classes and close connections with faculty. This is a more personalized learning guaranteed to boost your academic experience. More so, Wesleyan offers over 47 majors and more than 900 courses, so you have a lot of options to pick from.
| Location | Middletown, CT |
|---|---|
| US News National Ranking | #14 in the National Liberal Arts Colleges |
| Acceptance Rate | 19% |
| Graduation Rate | 90.3% |
| Average SAT/ACT | 1300-1510 SAT, 31-34 ACT |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 3,300 |
How to Choose the Best Non-Ivy League School
Choosing the right non-Ivy League school depends on your academic goals, personal preferences, and career aspirations. Consider the following factors to make an informed decision:
Academic Programs: Look for schools that excel in your field of interest, whether it’s STEM, business, arts, or social sciences.
Acceptance Rate & Selectivity: Understand how competitive each school is and how your academic profile aligns with its admissions standards.
Tuition & Financial Aid: Compare costs, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities to find a school that fits your budget.
Campus Culture & Student Life: Research extracurricular activities, campus resources, and social environment to ensure a good personal fit.
Location & Networking Opportunities: Consider proximity to industries, internship options, and alums networks that can support your future career.
Reputation & Career Outcomes: Look at rankings, faculty expertise, and alums success to gauge long-term benefits.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, choosing the right college is a big decision for a student’s future. Despite Ivy League schools often getting a lot of attention, many non-Ivy League schools offer amazing opportunities, too. Above, we’ve reviewed the best non-Ivy League schools like UCLA, Stanford, Northwestern University, Swarthmore College, and many more. These schools provide excellent academics, unique programs, and a supportive student community to help you throughout your college journey. You can get all the help you need to achieve your goals without the pressure of getting into an Ivy League school. Feel free to explore all the options available and see the one that ticks all of your boxes in terms of disciplines offered and location.
FAQ on Best Non Ivy League Schools
Is Northwestern University Ivy League?
No, Northwestern is not an Ivy League school. Still, it is highly prestigious, a member of the Big Ten Conference, and a member of the Association of American Universities, which includes top research universities in the U.S. and Canada.
Is Northwestern University Ivy League?
No, Northwestern is not an Ivy League school, but it is highly prestigious and a member of the Big Ten Conference and the Association of American Universities, which includes top research universities in the U.S. and Canada.
Is Vanderbilt University an Ivy League school?
No, Vanderbilt is not an Ivy League school, but it is a highly respected private research university in Nashville, Tennessee. It has consistently ranked among the top schools in the U.S.
Is the University of Notre Dame an Ivy League?
No, the University of Notre Dame is not part of the Ivy League. However, even without the attachment to the Ivy League, the school is known for its high academic standards.
Is Oxford University Ivy League?
No, Oxford isn’t an Ivy League school, though it is ranked No.4 among the best Global Universities. The Ivy League includes only eight universities in the U.S.: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Dartmouth, Brown, Pennsylvania, and Cornell.
Is Tufts Ivy League?
No, Tufts isn’t an Ivy League school, but it’s part of the “Little Ivies,” which is a group of prestigious liberal arts colleges known for rigorous academics.
What makes a non-Ivy League school prestigious?
Prestige comes from strong academic programs, research opportunities, alumni success, and recognition in national rankings. Many non-Ivy League schools rival Ivy League universities in quality and reputation.
Which non-Ivy League schools have the highest acceptance rate?
Schools like the University of Southern California (USC) and Boston University (BU) offer competitive yet higher acceptance rates compared to Ivy League schools, making them accessible options for high-achieving students.
Are non-Ivy League schools cheaper than Ivy League schools?
Tuition varies widely. Some public non-Ivy League schools like the University of Michigan or UNC offer lower in-state tuition, while private schools like NYU or USC can be comparable to Ivy League costs. Scholarships and financial aid often reduce overall expenses.
Which programs are strongest at top non-Ivy League schools?
Many non-Ivy schools excel in STEM, business, arts, and social sciences. For example, Georgia Tech is renowned for engineering, NYU for arts and business, and UCLA for medicine and social sciences.
Can non-Ivy League schools lead to strong career outcomes?
Yes, nonAlumseague schools can lead to strong career outcomes. Alumni from non-Ivy League schools often secure top jobs, prestigious internships, and graduate school placements, proving that career success is not limited to Ivy League graduates.
