Summary
The hidden Ivies schools are becoming an attractive opportunity for college-bound students, due to their academic rigor, collaborative environment, and holistic approach to education. The list of 63 top liberal arts schools and research universities are the original work of authors Howard and Matthew Greene in their book, “The Hidden Ivies.” In this article, we help students understand the differences between almost Ivy League schools and the traditional Ivy League, as well as admissions strategies for applying.
If you’ve been laser-focused on the eight Ivy League schools, you may be missing out on some of the most exceptional universities in the country. Hidden Ivies — the academically rigorous but lesser-known schools that sit on the periphery of the traditional Ivy League — are quickly gaining traction as sought-after universities. Here’s everything you need to know about what they are, which schools make the list, and why they might be the perfect fit for you.
Defining Hidden Ivies: History and Criteria
The term hidden Ivies comes from a book of the same name written by Howard and Matthew Greene. “The Hidden Ivies“ is a guide intended to create greater awareness of the small, distinctive cluster of colleges and universities of excellence, which includes 63 of the top liberal arts colleges (LACs) and universities in the United States.
To be considered a hidden Ivy, schools must meet several criteria, including:
- High-quality undergraduate education: The hidden, or almost, Ivies are distinctly focused on liberal arts education for undergraduates. This path gives students exposure to a broad range of ideas, opinions, philosophies, and beliefs across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
- Holistic development: Another cornerstone of these universities is development of the whole person, which ensures students become well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to a diverse, complex society.
- Class size and format: Typically, class sizes at liberal arts institutions tend to be smaller at 20 students or fewer, and the classroom format is more discussion-based than at a large university.
- Campus community: At hidden Ivies schools, students enjoy opportunities to engage in campus activities, from activism to athletics, student government, and sustainability. These campuses are geared toward students who want a sense of ownership at school, cultivating personal as well as intellectual growth.
Hidden Ivies vs. Ivy League: Key Comparisons
Aside from the criteria they must meet, almost Ivies are notable for their unique environments and educational focus. Here are several differences between hidden Ivies and the traditional Ivy League:
The Full List of Hidden Ivy Schools
The following schools are widely recognized as hidden Ivies based on the Greenes’ original framework and subsequent updates by admissions experts. The original list included only 30 schools, but it was updated in 2009 and again in 2016 to include 63 schools. The list includes a mix of liberal arts colleges and research universities across the country.
Benefits of Attending a Hidden Ivy
Students of almost Ivies enjoy a distinct experience from those at traditional Ivy League schools. In fact, IvyWise admissions counselor Rachel, former Assistant Dean of Admissions at Swarthmore, had this to say about her experience working at a hidden Ivy:
If we can narrow down the benefit of attending an Ivy League school to “resources,” I think that could absolutely be applied to a hidden Ivy as well, and Swarthmore is no exception. In fact, given its size, location, and commitment to teaching, one could argue you’d have more access to resources than you might elsewhere. In my experience, there is an incredible student-teacher relationship at Swarthmore — inviting students to participate in research, chatting in the dining hall or during office hours, or just a genuine enjoyment of the classroom experience on both sides. Additionally, being able to get from the serene campus into the heart of Philly via train or car in about 30 minutes opens up a world of opportunity professionally and otherwise. It was always clear to me why students fell in love with Swarthmore!
Here are the specific benefits of attending a hidden Ivy institution:
- Personalized experience: Due to smaller class sizes and the discussion style of liberal arts classrooms, students enjoy deeper discussion and engagement. They also have direct access to professors without the competition of a larger student population.
- Collaborative environment: The experience of attending a hidden Ivy focuses less on competition and more on cooperation and community.
- Solid financial support: Traditional Ivy League schools do not offer merit aid; however, several of the almost Ivies offer merit-based scholarships in addition to need-based aid.
- Career advantages: In an era of rapidly evolving AI and digital technology, students with strong critical thinking skills developed at liberal arts colleges have the advantage. Employers are looking for individuals who have the confidence and flexibility to continually learn new skills and material.
Affordability and Financial Aid at Hidden Ivies
In the U.S., liberal arts colleges typically offer generous, need-based financial aid with some offering 100% of demonstrated need without student loans. To determine eligibility, these schools use the CSS Profile and FAFSA. No-loan packages may also be available for low-income families.
Admissions Strategies for Hidden Ivies
Academic prowess and extracurricular activities are just as important at almost Ivy League schools, so it’s important to be intentional about the courses and activities you choose in high school. If you’re thinking about attending a hidden Ivy, here are a few strategies our admissions counselors recommend
- Show demonstrated interest: Admissions officers at liberal arts schools want to see that you’re going beyond normal college visits. For example, you could attend virtual visits, meet with admissions counselors, and interact with alumni and current students.
- Emphasize a purpose project: Schools like the hidden Ivies are more interested in deep, long-lasting involvement in an area of interest that relates to your major, rather than a long list of extracurricular activities. Take on an independent project that shows you’re a specialist in the area you want to study.
- Develop a holistic profile: Your involvement in activities like student government, debate, theater, or community service is of particular importance at these universities.
- Be specific with essays: Another critical admission strategy for the hidden Ivy schools is to avoid generic essays. Instead, be sure to reference professors, classes, and community aspects of the college that particularly resonate with you — this is another way to show demonstrated interest.
- Focus on letters of recommendation: Ask your high school teachers for letters of recommendation, which are even more important when admissions classes are small.
- Be strategic with test scores: While some almost Ivies are test-optional, others now require standardized test scores as part of the application process. Even if the school you’re applying to is test-optional, submitting a good test score can help.
How to Find the Right Hidden Ivy for You
When you’re building your college list, it’s important to consider schools that will be a good fit for you — socially, academically, emotionally, and financially. As we’ve already mentioned, hidden Ivies offer a unique learning environment, student community, and academic opportunities. If these qualities are interesting to you, IvyWise’s expert counselors can help you identify hidden Ivies and other great schools that align with your academic profile, interests, and goals.
Contact Us
