COLLEGE IN THE US
The United States boasts a diverse range of universities, each offering unique academic experiences and vibrant communities. Here, you'll find institutions renowned for their cutting-edge research, rich history, and commitment to fostering future leaders and innovators. Whether you're drawn to bustling city campuses or idyllic college towns, there's a perfect fit waiting for you.
Harvard University
An Ivy League founded in 1636, is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. Situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, it has the largest endowment of any academic institution in the world. Harvard has educated eight United States presidents and 158 Nobel laureates. What are you waiting for? Get to work and make history!
SAT: The middle 50% of enrolled students scored between 1460 and 1580 on the SAT (reading and writing combined), between 730 and 780 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section, and between 760 and 800 on the Math section.
ACT: The middle 50% of enrolled students scored between 34 and 36.
GPA: Harvard doesn't publish a minimum GPA requirement, but due to the highly competitive nature of admissions, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is essential.
TOEFL/IELTS: International applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum TOEFL score requirement is 100, and the minimum IELTS score requirement is 7.0.
Princeton University
An Ivy League university founded in 1746 and consistently ranked among the best in the nation, Princeton boasts a vibrant campus community in Princeton, New Jersey. It has nurtured nearly 70 Nobel laureates and countless other influential figures. Ready to join their ranks? Get to work and make your mark!
SAT: While Princeton is test-optional, the middle 50% of enrolled students scored between 1470 and 1560 on the SAT (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score). The breakdown is typically 720-770 for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 740-800 for Math on the 1600 SAT scale.
ACT: Similar to the SAT, the middle 50% of admitted students scored between 33 and 35 on the ACT.
GPA: There's no published minimum GPA requirement, but due to the highly competitive admissions process, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is crucial.
TOEFL/IELTS: International applicants with English as a non-native language need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum TOEFL requirement is 100, and the minimum IELTS requirement is 7.0.
Stanford University
Stanford University, established in 1885, is a prestigious private research university nestled in Stanford, California. Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford fosters a vibrant community of scholars, entrepreneurs, and innovators. This dynamic environment consistently ranks among the top universities globally and has produced numerous influential figures, including 85 Nobel laureates. Are you ready to push boundaries, ignite your creativity, and change the world? Then Stanford might be your perfect match!
Standardized Testing (Optional): Stanford transitioned to a test-optional admissions policy for students applying for fall 2023 and beyond. While scores are no longer required, they can still be considered as part of a well-rounded application.
International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT)
IELTS: Overall score of 7.0 with no subscore below 6.5
Yale University
Yale University, established in 1746, is a prestigious Ivy League institution situated in New Haven, Connecticut. Consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide, Yale fosters a vibrant intellectual community that has produced numerous influential figures, including five presidents of the United States and 65 Nobel laureates. Are you ready to embark on a rigorous academic journey and make your mark on the world? Then Yale awaits!
Standardized Testing (Test-Flexible): While Yale considers test scores if submitted, they emphasize a well-rounded application.
SAT Range (Middle 50%): 1470-1580 (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score) on the 1600 SAT scale.
Typical ACT Range (Middle 50%): 33-35
Brown University
Brown University, established in 1764, is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Providence, Rhode Island. Renowned for its innovative Open Curriculum, Brown fosters a dynamic learning environment that empowers students to pursue their academic passions. This intellectual haven has produced countless leaders and innovators, including five Nobel laureates. Are you ready to chart your own academic course and make a difference? Then Brown awaits!
SAT: While Brown recently reinstated standardized testing requirements, they consider scores within the context of the whole application. The middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1500 and 1570 on the new SAT (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score). The typical breakdown is 720-770 for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 740-800 for Math.
ACT: Similar to the SAT, the middle 50% of admitted students scored between 34 and 36 on the ACT.
GPA: There's no published minimum GPA requirement. However, due to the highly selective nature of admissions, a strong GPA in a challenging curriculum is essential.
TOEFL/IELTS: International applicants whose native language is not English need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum TOEFL requirement is 100, and the minimum IELTS requirement is 7.0.
University of Chicago
The University of Chicago, established in 1890, is a prestigious private research university located in Chicago, Illinois. Renowned for its rigorous academics, intellectual intensity, and groundbreaking research, UChicago fosters a vibrant community of scholars and future leaders. This intellectually stimulating environment has produced 91 Nobel laureates – the most of any university in the world. Are you ready to challenge yourself and make a lasting impact? Then UChicago might be your perfect match!
SAT/ACT: UChicago employs a test-flexible admissions policy. While they consider scores if submitted, they emphasize a well-rounded application.
Typical SAT range (middle 50%): 1530 (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score) on the 1600 SAT scale.
Typical ACT range (middle 50%): 34
GPA: There's no published minimum GPA requirement. However, due to the highly selective nature of admissions, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is essential.
TOEFL/IELTS: International applicants whose native language is not English need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum requirement is:
TOEFL: 100 internet-based test (iBT) or higher
IELTS: Overall score of 7.0 with no subscore below 7.0
Columbia University
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is one of the eight prestigious Ivy League schools and consistently ranks among the top universities globally. Located in New York City, Columbia offers a vibrant academic and social environment in the heart of a major metropolis.
Columbia boasts a renowned faculty and world-class research facilities. Its alumni include numerous influential figures, including five U.S. presidents, over 100 Nobel laureates, and countless leaders in various fields.
Test Scores and Admissions
While Columbia utilizes a test-optional admissions policy, strong academic performance is still a crucial factor. Here's a look at typical scores for admitted students:
SAT: Middle 50% range between 1470-1570 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing)
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 720-770
Math: 750-800
ACT: Middle 50% range between 34-35
New York University
Founded in 1831, NYU is a private research university and a giant in the world of academia. Not one of the Ivy League institutions, NYU has carved its own path to prestige, consistently ranking among the top universities globally. Located in the heart of New York City, NYU offers an unparalleled blend of academics and urban energy.
While standardized testing is now optional, a strong academic background is still crucial for applicants.
SAT (Optional): Middle 50% range between 1460-1580 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing)
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 730-780
Math: 760-800
ACT (Optional): Middle 50% range between 34-36
GPA: NYU doesn't publish a minimum GPA requirement, but due to the competitive nature of admissions, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is essential.
TOEFL/IELTS: International applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum TOEFL score requirement is 100, and the minimum IELTS score requirement is 7.0.
Cornell University
Cornell University, founded in 1865, is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Ithaca, New York. Cornell is known for its vast academic offerings, world-class research endeavors, and its motto, "Liberty under Law." From its seven undergraduate colleges to its renowned graduate programs, Cornell fosters intellectual exploration across a diverse range of disciplines. This vibrant community has produced numerous influential figures, including 34 Nobel laureates. Are you ready to dive into a world of learning and discovery? Then set your sights on Cornell!
SAT/ACT: While Cornell is currently test-optional for students applying to enroll for fall 2025, some of its colleges still recommend submitting test scores. Here's the breakdown:
Colleges recommending scores: College of Arts & Sciences; Cornell Engineering; College of Human Ecology; Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy; and School of Industrial and Labor Relations.
Typical SAT range: 1450-1560 (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score) on the 1600 SAT scale.
Typical ACT range: 33-35
Colleges currently test-optional: College of Agriculture and Life Sciences; College of Architecture, Art, and Planning; and Cornell SC Johnson College of Business (all programs).
GPA: There's no published minimum GPA requirement. However, due to the highly competitive admissions process, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is crucial.
TOEFL/IELTS: International applicants whose native language is not English need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum TOEFL requirement is typically 100, and the minimum IELTS requirement is 7.0 (requirements may vary slightly by college).
Duke University
Founded in 1838, Duke University is a private research university renowned for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and unwavering commitment to scholarship and community. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke fosters a spirit of collaboration and innovation in a beautiful and friendly environment.
Duke offers a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum with a vast array of majors and minors across its prestigious Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Pratt School of Engineering, and other esteemed schools. Duke also boasts a robust international presence, fostering global learning opportunities.
SAT/ACT (Optional):
SAT (typical range): Middle 50% scored between 1460-1550 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing)
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 730-790 range
Math: 750-800 range
ACT (typical range): Middle 50% scored between 33-35
GPA: Duke doesn't publish a minimum GPA requirement, but due to the competitive nature of admissions, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is essential.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Founded in 1861, MIT is a private research university legendary for its scientific and technological advancements. Renowned for its challenging academics and “mens et manus” (mind and hand) approach, MIT fosters a community of brilliant minds dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT places you at the heart of a thriving innovation ecosystem.
MIT boasts world-class faculty and exceptional research facilities across a vast array of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, alongside economics, management, and the humanities. MIT graduates are known for their problem-solving prowess and ability to translate ideas into groundbreaking solutions.
Admission to MIT is incredibly competitive. Strong academic performance is paramount, with standardized testing playing a role even if it's optional.
SAT/ACT (Optional): Aim for the top percentiles.
Typical SAT range: Middle 50% score between 1500-1570 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) with strong scores in Math (usually 770-800).
Typical ACT range: Middle 50% score between 34-36.
GPA: While MIT doesn't have a minimum, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is essential.
University of Pennsylvania
Founded in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is a prestigious Ivy League institution with a rich history and unwavering commitment to knowledge and social responsibility. UPenn fosters a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment, upholding Quaker principles of service and peace within a competitive academic setting.
UPenn boasts four undergraduate schools – the College of Arts and Sciences, Wharton School of the Business, School of Engineering and Applied Science, and School of Nursing – offering a vast array of majors and minors. This breadth allows you to explore diverse academic interests while pursuing focused studies within your chosen field.
Admission to UPenn is highly competitive. While standardized testing is now optional, a strong academic foundation remains crucial.
SAT/ACT (Optional): Aim for the highest percentiles if submitting.
Typical SAT range (pre-optional testing): Middle 50% scored between 1560-1580 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) with emphasis on strong Math scores (760-800).
Typical ACT range (pre-optional testing): Middle 50% scored between 35-36.
GPA: UPenn doesn't publish a minimum, but a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is essential (averages suggest over 3.9/4).
University of California, Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley, established in 1868, is a world-renowned public research university nestled in Berkeley, California. Often referred to as "Cal," Berkeley is a flagship campus within the prestigious UC system and consistently ranks among the top universities globally. It fosters a vibrant and diverse campus community known for its commitment to social justice and groundbreaking research. This intellectual powerhouse has produced numerous influential figures, including 100 Nobel laureates. Are you ready to immerse yourself in a stimulating learning environment and make a difference? Then UC Berkeley awaits!
Admission Requirements:
A-G Course Requirements: All applicants, domestic and international, must fulfill the A-G course requirements outlined by the University of California system. These requirements ensure a strong foundation in core academic subjects. (https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/admission-requirements/freshman-requirements/subject-requirement-a-g.html)
GPA: The minimum GPA requirement for in-state California residents is 3.4. Out-of-state and international applicants are expected to have a GPA that reflects academic excellence in their respective educational systems.
Test Scores (Optional):
While UC Berkeley transitioned to a test-optional admissions policy, submitting scores can still be advantageous for some applicants. Here's a breakdown of the typical ranges for admitted students who choose to submit test scores:
SAT: Middle 50% scored between 1415 and 1570 (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score) on the 1600 SAT scale.
ACT: Middle 50% scored between 33 and 35.
English Language Proficiency:
International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (UC Berkeley prefers 100)
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Founded in 1882, UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) is a public research university consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Nestled in sunny Los Angeles, UCLA offers a vibrant campus life, world-class academics, and access to the cultural and professional opportunities of a major metropolis.
Typical SAT Range (pre-optional testing): Middle 50% scored between 1400-1600 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing)
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 670-770 range
Math: 730-790 range
University of Michigan
Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan (U of M) is a public research university consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country. Steeped in tradition and renowned for its fervent school spirit ("Go Blue!"), U of M offers a world-class education in a dynamic and spirited environment. Situated in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the university provides a beautiful college town atmosphere with easy access to a major metropolitan area.
While standardized testing is not required, U of M considers it as part of a holistic review process. Strong scores can strengthen your application.
SAT (typical range): Middle 50% scored between 1435-1530 (combined Evidence-Based Reading & Writing)
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 710-770 range
Math: 730-790 range
ACT (typical range): Middle 50% scored between 31-34
GPA: Due to the competitive nature, a strong GPA in a rigorous curriculum is crucial (averages suggest over 3.8/4).