What is the Ivy League?

You may have heard the term 'Ivy League' used to refer to a set of elite colleges in the U.S. But what are the Ivy League schools, and how did they come to be known as the Ivies? Whether you're interested in studying at one of these renowned institutions or just want a brief history lesson, all you need is here.

What are the Ivy League Colleges?

First things first, which schools are Ivies? Typically, the term refers to a group of eight colleges and universities in the northeastern United States. These schools are Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell, and the University of Pennsylvania.

Why is it called the Ivy League?

The term "Ivy" is believed to have been coined in the 1930s, likely in reference to the ivy plants common on many of the older buildings on these schools' campuses. The ivy plant is a symbol of tradition and continuity, which aligns with the reputation of these institutions as being some of the oldest and most respected in the country. The Ivy League schools are known for their academic rigor and strong athletic programs. They are also considered to be some of the most selective and prestigious colleges in the world.

Many of the Ivy League schools have been around for centuries and have a rich history. Let's take a closer look at four of the Ivy League schools: Pennsylvania, Cornell, Columbia, and Harvard.

The University of Pennsylvania, also known as Penn, was founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin. It is in Philadelphia and is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and medicine. It is also home to the prestigious Wharton School of Business.

Cornell University was founded in 1865 in Ithaca, New York. It is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine. It is also home to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which is one of the world's leading centers for studing and researching birds.

Columbia University, founded in 1754, is in New York City. It is known for its strong programs in the humanities and social sciences and is also home to the Pulitzer Prize. Columbia is also famous for having a graduate school of journalism and a law school.

In 1636, Harvard University was founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and is known for its strong programs in the humanities and social sciences. It is also home to the prestigious Harvard Business School.

The Ivy League schools are also alma mater to many famous alumni, including presidents, CEOs, and Nobel laureates. If you're considering applying to one of these schools, be prepared for a rigorous application process and a challenging, yet rewarding, educational experience.