

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below. This has resulted in some of the lowest acceptance rates in U.S. With hundreds of schools going temporarily or permanently test-optional in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges are experiencing record application numbers. All data is for the class of 2026 unless otherwise noted. Use the table below to see which colleges are the most competitive in the U.S. They may not belong to the Ivy League, but they offer similarly extensive research opportunities and reputable degree programs. While Ivy League schools make up the majority of the hardest colleges to get into, other highly selective schools, like Stanford and MIT, have comparably low admission rates. These factors contribute to a long history of innovation and success.

Over time, these schools have built up their reputations through a combination of academic excellence, large endowments, and notable alumni and faculty. The hardest colleges to get into are among the oldest in the U.S. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. The Public Ivies, Little Ivies, and Other Ivy League Equivalentsī is an advertising-supported site.Student Resources show submenu for Student Resources
