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College Selection Tips & Advice for Students

students walking on campus steps

The New Ivies: A 2026 Guide to Emerging Universities

The New Ivies are a category of rising prestigious colleges that share the academic rigor, selectivity, and career outcomes of traditional Ivy League schools but are distinct in their inclusion of public and private universities, higher acceptance rates, and lower tuition in some cases.

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West Campus at Duke University

How to Get into Duke: All You Need to Know

Often regarded as a “Southern Ivy,” which makes admission highly competitive, Duke attracts talented students from across the U.S. and around the globe. If you aspire to become a Blue Devil, it’s essential to understand what Duke looks for in applicants so you can position yourself for success.

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University of Chicago Campus

How to Get into UChicago: All You Need to Know

The University of Chicago, commonly known as UChicago, is a private research university located within a 217-acre botanical garden in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. UChicago was established in 1890 on the founding principles of academic freedom and free expression — principles that are still upheld to this day through interdisciplinary collaboration, world-class academics and research, and a distinctive campus culture.

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aerial view of MIT campus

How to Get into MIT: All You Need to Know

As a leading research university with acceptance rates that mirror the Ivy League, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology attracts students from around the world. MIT has plenty of top-tier programs, in addition to a dual degree program with neighboring Wellesley College.

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aerial view of UNC Chapel Hill

How to Get into UNC Chapel Hill: All You Need to Know

Founded as the nation’s first public university in 1793, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — also known simply as “Carolina” — offers a combination of historic prestige, top-tier research, and a lively college town atmosphere.

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students walking on university campus

Top 7 Best College Campuses in the U.S.

When you’re searching for your best-fit college, IvyWise counselors always recommend choosing one that aligns with your academic, personal, and professional goals, as well as your needs, preferences, and values.

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Aerial view of UCLA campus

How to Get into UCLA: All You Need to Know

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), is one of the most selective universities in the prestigious public University of California system. Located in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, UCLA offers the best of both worlds: an urban campus with access to all the nature the great state of California has to offer. 

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aerial shot of NYU campus

How to Get into NYU: All You Need to Know

With a location in the heart of New York City and an array of top-ranked academic programs, it’s easy to understand why so many students place New York University at the top of their college best-fit lists. The institution has plenty of research and learning opportunities to offer, as well as all of the advantages associated with going to school in a major metropolitan city.

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College campus building with red tile roof and many windows.

How to Get into UC Berkeley: All You Need to Know

The University of California at Berkeley, or Cal, as it’s lovingly called, is a legendary institution of higher learning located in charming Berkeley, California, on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay. Read on to find out more about UC Berkeley, how to get in, and how to improve your applicant profile to increase your chances of admission.

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Northwestern University

How to Get into Northwestern: All You Need to Know

Northwestern is a top research university and liberal arts institution just outside of Chicago in the town of Evanston, Illinois. It’s known for its world-class Medill School of Journalism as well as its top-notch, innovative programs across disciplines.

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