"I want to get into Amherst," said very few students. Most academically gifted and well-rounded students aspire to get into the "Dream 8" Ivy League schools. The challenge of getting into the Ivies, such as Yale, Harvard, or Columbia, involves a rigorous admission process. The competitiveness of gaining admission to these elite universities is well-known. Applicants need consistent and strong academic performance, robust extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership skills, critical thinking abilities, volunteer work, and internships that provide practical experience.

Undoubtedly, getting into the Ivies offers a strong brand name, global reputation, and recognition. However, does it mean that non-Ivies don't make the cut? Let's explore the world beyond the Ivies. Below is a list of 30 prestigious colleges that often get overlooked when students set their sights on studying in the US. Some are well-known, while others remain hidden gems:

1. Duke
2. MIT
3. Stanford
4. University of Michigan
5. Georgia Tech
6. University of Southern California
7. Northwestern
8. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
9. University of Washington
10. Caltech
11. University of Chicago
12. Amherst
13. Pomona
14. Williams
15. Swarthmore
16. Harvey Mudd
17. Bowdoin
18. Wellesley
19. Colgate
20. Claremont McKenna
21. Vanderbilt
22. Rice
23. Johns Hopkins
24. Emory
25. Washington University in St. Louis
26. University of Notre Dame
27. University of Virginia
28. Boston College
29. Tufts
30. Georgetown

Brief insights into each of these universities, in no particular order, can encourage you to think beyond the Ivies.

1. Duke

Location - Durham , North carolina

Applications- 49, 523

Acceptance rate - 5.88%

International students enrollment - 9.86 %

A private research university , Duke is ranked # 7 in the list of national universities. Getting into Duke is an ardent task. Strong academic rigour, SAT scores aimed at  1450-1560, remarkable achievements in Extracurricular that reflect your personal interest to create a strong statement of purpose which is unique to you.

Popular majors - Computer Science, Biology, Public policy analysis, Economics, Nursing, Research and experimental psychology, Political science and government, Computer hardware engineering, bioengineering, bio medical engineering and mechanical engineering, Neuroscience.

Tuition Fees - $ 79,338

Financial Aid - Need blind , Support 91.6 % of the total cost. About 30% International students have been given financial aid.

2. MIT

Location - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Applications- 33, 767

Acceptance rate - 3.96%

International students enrollment -10.92%

Home to diverse intellectual life , a private land grant University , MIT is well known for its programs in engineering and physical sciences. One of the best Business schools, Engineering schools, Biological science, computer sciences, economics, mathematics, Physics and political science. They look for nothing short of the best. Apart from academics and non academics, MIT pays heed to the Character of the potential student. For example your resilience followed by multiple failures whilst working on your projects, that's a little heads up for you to include in your Personal statement.

Tuition Fees - $ 82,730

Financial Aid - Need blind , Support 82.96 % of the total cost. About 80% International students have been given financial aid.

Popular Majors -  Computer Science; Mechanical Engineering; Mathematics, General; Econometrics and Quantitative Economics; Electrical and Electronics Engineering; Physics, General; Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering; Chemical Engineering; and Cognitive Science.

3. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, California

Applications: 55,471

Acceptance Rate: 4.34%

International Students Enrollment: 11.35%

A private research university, Stanford is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and proximity to Silicon Valley. It ranks consistently among the top universities globally. Stanford seeks students with strong academic records, a passion for learning, and significant accomplishments in extracurricular activities.

Popular Majors: Computer Science, Engineering, Biological Sciences, Economics, Management Science and Engineering, Psychology, and Political Science.

Tuition Fees: $78,218

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 90.3% of the total cost. Approximately 70% of international students receive financial aid.

4 .University of Michigan

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Applications: 65,684
Acceptance Rate: 20.15%
International Students Enrollment: 14.2%

A top public research university, Michigan offers a dynamic campus life and a robust academic environment. Known for its diverse programs and interdisciplinary research opportunities, it seeks students who demonstrate leadership, creativity, and a commitment to community service.

Popular Majors: Business, Computer Science, Psychology, Economics, Political Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Public Policy.

Tuition Fees: $62,176 (out-of-state)

Financial Aid: Need-based aid available, supporting 80% of the total cost for those who qualify. About 30% of international students receive financial aid.

5.Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)

Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Applications: 40,852
Acceptance Rate: 21.3%
International Students Enrollment: 18.6%

A public research university, Georgia Tech is known for its strong emphasis on science and technology. It seeks students who excel in STEM fields and show innovative and analytical thinking skills.

Popular Majors: Computer Science, Engineering (various fields), Business Administration, Biology, and Architecture.

Tuition Fees: $49,818 (out-of-state)

Financial Aid: Need-based aid available, supporting 70% of the total cost for those who qualify. Approximately 20% of international students receive financial aid.

6.University of Southern California (USC)

Location: Los Angeles, California
Applications: 66,198
Acceptance Rate: 11.4%
International Students Enrollment: 23%

A private research university, USC offers a blend of strong academic programs and a vibrant campus culture in a major urban setting. It seeks students with strong academic records and diverse talents in arts, athletics, and leadership.

Popular Majors: Business, Film and Television Production, Computer Science, Biological Sciences, Engineering, and Communications.

Tuition Fees: $79,063

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 75.8% of the total cost. About 30% of international students receive financial aid.

7.Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, Illinois
Applications: 47,633
Acceptance Rate: 7.3%
International Students Enrollment: 12.1%

A private research university, Northwestern is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant arts scene. It seeks students with outstanding academic achievements and a strong record of involvement in extracurricular activities.

Popular Majors: Journalism, Economics, Psychology, Biological Sciences, Engineering, Communication Studies, and Political Science.

Tuition Fees: $80,984

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 85% of the total cost. About 45% of international students receive financial aid.

8.Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)

Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Applications: 32,896
Acceptance Rate: 13.5%
International Students Enrollment: 20.5%

A private research university, CMU is renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, and fine arts. It seeks students who demonstrate technical proficiency, creativity, and a commitment to innovation.

Popular Majors: Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Drama, Business Administration, and Robotics.

Tuition Fees: $79,514

Financial Aid: Need-based aid available, supporting 70% of the total cost for those who qualify. Approximately 25% of international students receive financial aid.

9.University of Washington

Location: Seattle, Washington
Applications: 45,907
Acceptance Rate: 52.2%
International Students Enrollment: 16.5%

A public research university, the University of Washington offers a comprehensive range of programs and a strong emphasis on research and innovation. It seeks students who excel academically and show potential in research and leadership.

Popular Majors: Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Biology, and Psychology.

Tuition Fees: $51,500 (out-of-state)

Financial Aid: Need-based aid available, supporting 60% of the total cost for those who qualify. About 20% of international students receive financial aid.

10.California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Location: Pasadena, California
Applications: 8,367
Acceptance Rate: 6.4%
International Students Enrollment: 12.3%

A private research university, Caltech is known for its strength in science and engineering. It seeks students with exceptional abilities in math and science, as well as a strong commitment to research and innovation.

Popular Majors: Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Biology.

Tuition Fees: $79,947

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 95% of the total cost. About 60% of international students receive financial aid.

11.University of Chicago

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Applications: 37,986
Acceptance Rate: 6.2%
International Students Enrollment: 16.2%

A private research university, the University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on intellectual inquiry. It seeks students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and a passion for critical thinking.

Popular Majors: Economics, Biological Sciences, Mathematics, Political Science, Public Policy, Computer Science, and English Language and Literature.

Tuition Fees: $81,531

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of the demonstrated need. About 55% of international students receive financial aid.

12.Amherst College

Location: Amherst, Massachusetts
Applications: 13,378
Acceptance Rate: 11.3%
International Students Enrollment: 10.5%

A private liberal arts college, Amherst is known for its strong academic programs and close-knit community. It seeks students who excel academically and show a commitment to community service and leadership.

Popular Majors: Economics, Mathematics, English, History, Psychology, Political Science, and Biology.

Tuition Fees: $79,600

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 60% of international students receive financial aid.

13.Pomona College

Location: Claremont, California
Applications: 10,401
Acceptance Rate: 7.4%
International Students Enrollment: 13.9%

A private liberal arts college, Pomona offers a rigorous academic environment and a close-knit community. It seeks students with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to social responsibility.

Popular Majors: Economics, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Public Policy Analysis, and Environmental Analysis.

Tuition Fees: $78,888

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 50% of international students receive financial aid.

14.Williams College

Location: Williamstown, Massachusetts
Applications: 9,715
Acceptance Rate: 13.0%
International Students Enrollment: 9.8%

A private liberal arts college, Williams is known for its excellent teaching and strong academic programs. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service.

Popular Majors: Economics, Political Science, Biology, History, Psychology, and Mathematics.

Tuition Fees: $78,700

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 55% of international students receive financial aid.

15.Swarthmore College

Location: Swarthmore, Pennsylvania
Applications: 11,442
Acceptance Rate: 9.0%
International Students Enrollment: 11.7%

A private liberal arts college, Swarthmore is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility. It seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Popular Majors: Biology, Economics, Engineering, Political Science, Computer Science, and Psychology.

Tuition Fees: $78,654

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 60% of international students receive financial aid.

16.Harvey Mudd College

Location: Claremont, California
Applications: 4,737
Acceptance Rate: 13.3%
International Students Enrollment: 12.1%

A private college specialising in engineering, science, and mathematics, Harvey Mudd offers a rigorous academic environment. It seeks students with strong abilities in STEM fields and a commitment to applying their skills to solve real-world problems.

Popular Majors: Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Tuition Fees: $79,539

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 45% of international students receive financial aid.

17.Bowdoin College

Location: Brunswick, Maine
Applications: 9,081
Acceptance Rate: 9.1%
International Students Enrollment: 7.8%

A private liberal arts college, Bowdoin is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to environmental sustainability. It seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to social and environmental causes.

Popular Majors: Government and Legal Studies, Economics, Mathematics, Biology, and Computer Science.

Tuition Fees: $78,350

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 50% of international students receive financial aid.

18.Wellesley College

Location: Wellesley, Massachusetts
Applications: 7,599
Acceptance Rate: 20.4%
International Students Enrollment: 12.0%

A private women's liberal arts college, Wellesley is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to women's leadership. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership potential.

Popular Majors: Economics, Political Science, Biology, Psychology, English, and Computer Science.

Tuition Fees: $78,870

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 60% of international students receive financial aid.

19.Colgate University

Location: Hamilton, New York
Applications: 17,392
Acceptance Rate: 23.6%
International Students Enrollment: 9.5%

A private liberal arts college, Colgate is known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus. It seeks students who excel academically and show a commitment to leadership and community service.

Popular Majors: Economics, Political Science, History, Psychology, Biology, and Computer Science.

Tuition Fees: $77,820

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 45% of international students receive financial aid.

20.Claremont McKenna College

Location: Claremont, California
Applications: 6,349
Acceptance Rate: 11.2%
International Students Enrollment: 11.0%

A private liberal arts college, Claremont McKenna is known for its strong emphasis on economics, government, and public affairs. It seeks students who excel academically and show leadership potential.

Popular Majors: Economics, Government, Psychology, International Relations, and Computer Science.

Tuition Fees: $79,500

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 50% of international students receive financial aid.

21.Vanderbilt University

Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Applications: 47,152
Acceptance Rate: 7.6%
International Students Enrollment: 11.3%

A private research university, Vanderbilt is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service.

Popular Majors: Economics, Computer Science, Biological Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Human and Organisational Development, and Political Science.

Tuition Fees: $80,444

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 65% of international students receive financial aid.

22.Rice University

Location: Houston, Texas
Applications: 29,517
Acceptance Rate: 8.7%
International Students Enrollment: 13.4%

A private research university, Rice is known for its strong emphasis on science and engineering. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate a strong commitment to research and innovation.

Popular Majors: Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Economics, Biochemistry, and Cell Biology, Psychology, and Chemical Engineering.

Tuition Fees: $77,410

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 60% of international students receive financial aid.

23.Johns Hopkins University

Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Applications: 37,156
Acceptance Rate: 8.9%
International Students Enrollment: 14.1%

A private research university, Johns Hopkins is known for its strong emphasis on research and medicine. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate a strong commitment to research and community service.

Popular Majors: Public Health, Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, International Studies, Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Computer Science.

Tuition Fees: $78,360

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 50% of international students receive financial aid.

24.Emory University

Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Applications: 33,428
Acceptance Rate: 16.6%
International Students Enrollment: 12.7%

A private research university, Emory is known for its strong programs in the health sciences and liberal arts. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service.

Popular Majors: Business Administration, Biology, Nursing, Psychology, Political Science, and Computer Science.

Tuition Fees: $77,348

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 45% of international students receive financial aid.

25.Washington University in St. Louis

Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Applications: 33,767
Acceptance Rate: 13.9%
International Students Enrollment: 9.9%

A private research university, Washington University in St. Louis is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to research. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service.

Popular Majors: Business Administration, Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Political Science.

Tuition Fees: $79,586

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 50% of international students receive financial aid.

26.University of Notre Dame

Location: Notre Dame, Indiana
Applications: 23,642
Acceptance Rate: 15.4%
International Students Enrollment: 9.2%

A private Catholic research university, Notre Dame is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to community service. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to service.

Popular Majors: Finance, Economics, Political Science, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, and Psychology.

Tuition Fees: $78,970

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 45% of international students receive financial aid.

27.University of Virginia

Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
Applications: 50,813
Acceptance Rate: 21.5%
International Students Enrollment: 8.9%

A top public research university, the University of Virginia offers a strong academic environment and a vibrant campus life. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service.

Popular Majors: Economics, Computer Science, Biology, Commerce, International Relations, and Psychology.

Tuition Fees: $66,400 (out-of-state)

Financial Aid: Need-based aid available, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 25% of international students receive financial aid.

28.Boston College

Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Applications: 35,552
Acceptance Rate: 19.3%
International Students Enrollment: 7.8%

A private Jesuit research university, Boston College is known for its strong liberal arts programs and commitment to social justice. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to service.

Popular Majors: Finance, Economics, Political Science, Biology, Nursing, and Psychology.

Tuition Fees: $76,310

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 40% of international students receive financial aid.

29.Tufts University

Location: Medford, Massachusetts
Applications: 23,127
Acceptance Rate: 15.0%
International Students Enrollment: 11.2%

A private research university, Tufts is known for its strong programs in international relations and the health sciences. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to global citizenship.

Popular Majors: International Relations, Biology, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, and Economics.

Tuition Fees: $79,668

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 55% of international students receive financial aid.

30.Georgetown University

Location: Washington, D.C.
Applications: 23,872
Acceptance Rate: 14.5%
International Students Enrollment: 12.5%

A private Jesuit research university, Georgetown is known for its strong programs in international relations, law, and business. It seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and a commitment to public service.

Popular Majors: International Relations, Political Science, Economics, Business, Law, and Psychology.

Tuition Fees: $79,005

Financial Aid: Need-blind, supporting 100% of demonstrated need. About 50% of international students receive financial aid.   

Keeping your options open relies on your understanding of the available choices. As a student, it's important to apply to multiple colleges to increase your chances of acceptance. Submitting multiple applications provides a safety net in the face of highly competitive admissions and low acceptance rates.