2024 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America

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1-25 of 217 results

Freshman: What I like the most about Minerva is the unique platform for the lessons. I love the sense of real-class experience it provides although it allows every student to connect to the class from anywhere. Furthermore, there is no school campus but many students say the city is the campus, and it is true! You get to know every corner of the city rather than binding to one campus, which is more incredible - the rotation city changes each semester or every year (depending on the year of study). Hence, you get to know the world around you and travel while studying.... Read 94 reviews
#1 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Minerva University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA,
94 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says What I like the most about Minerva is the unique platform for the lessons. I love the sense of real-class experience it provides although it allows every student to connect to the class from....
Read 94 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 1%,
Net Price: $15,215,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
#2 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
California Institute of Technology
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PASADENA, CA,
133 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Other says I like the campus most , students activities , diverse programs of alumni and dorms and libraries . overall experiences are very good ..
Read 133 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 3%,
Net Price: $20,755,
SAT Range: 1530-1580,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Freshman: Stanford University offers an exceptional academic environment with cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant campus life. The access to world-renowned faculty and a diverse, intellectually stimulating community are definite highlights. The collaborative atmosphere fosters innovation and personal growth. However, some areas for improvement could include increasing support for mental health services and addressing issues of diversity and inclusion more robustly. Additionally, enhancing financial aid programs to ensure broader accessibility for students from all economic backgrounds would be beneficial.... Read 1,289 reviews
#3 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Stanford University
4 Year,
STANFORD, CA,
1289 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Stanford University offers an exceptional academic environment with cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant campus life. The access to world-renowned faculty and a diverse, intellectually...However, some areas for improvement could include increasing support for mental health services and addressing issues of diversity and inclusion more robustly. Additionally, enhancing financial aid....
Read 1289 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 4%,
Net Price: $18,279,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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SponsoredCollege
Longwood University
4 Year·
FARMVILLE, VA
·
Rating 3.62 out of 5 1,223
SponsoredCollege
ECPI University - Roanoke, VA
2 Year·
ROANOKE, VA
·
Rating 3.33 out of 5 6
SponsoredCollege
George Mason University
4 Year·
FAIRFAX, VA
·
Rating 3.71 out of 5 5,077
Other: My time at Harvard University was truly an incredible experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was struck by the intellectual energy and vibrancy of the community. The professors were brilliant, challenging us to think critically and push the boundaries of our knowledge. I loved the small, seminar-style classes where I could engage in deep discussions with my classmates - people from such diverse backgrounds who each brought unique perspectives to the table. That said, Harvard wasn't without its challenges. The workload was intense, and I sometimes struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The university could do more to support student mental health and wellbeing, like better access to counseling services, more wellness programming, etc. But overall, my experience at Harvard was truly transformative. The knowledge and skills I gained have been invaluable, and the connections I made will continue to benefit me long after graduation.... Read 851 reviews
#4 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Harvard University
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
851 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Other says My time at Harvard University was truly an incredible experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was struck by the intellectual energy and vibrancy of the community. The professors were...That said, Harvard wasn't without its challenges. The workload was intense, and I sometimes struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The university could do more to support student mental...But overall, my experience at Harvard was truly transformative. The knowledge and skills I gained have been invaluable, and the connections I made will continue to benefit me long after graduation..
Read 851 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 3%,
Net Price: $19,491,
SAT Range: 1490-1580,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Other: My experience has greatly exceeded my already-high expectations. My professors have always been available and the opportunity to apply my studies and skills to research projects was great. My fellow student are good people and everyone in have met has some kind of truly unique capability. I have learned that being in the top 99% of GPA and test scores is great, but I routinely meet people in the top 99.5% and they seem many times smarter than me. Being around people like this keep me humble and motived. I like party scene, as I can alway find something fun to do whenever time allows. I also like that most of my colleagues are not trying to 'look' smart...and anyone who would try this would soon find that someone right next to them is many time more capable. I really like this place.... Read 667 reviews
#5 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
667 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Other says My experience has greatly exceeded my already-high expectations. My professors have always been available and the opportunity to apply my studies and skills to research projects was great. My....
Read 667 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 4%,
Net Price: $20,232,
SAT Range: 1530-1580,
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Alum: As a biochemistry student at Columbia University, my experience was extraordinary. The Core Curriculum was a highlight, exposing me to literature, philosophy, art history, and music. This interdisciplinary approach enriched my understanding and fostered critical thinking and analytical writing skills. Beyond academics, I loved engaging with the community through Peer Health Exchange (now S-HEAL), where I educated high school students on health and wellness. This experience enhanced my communication skills and deepened my commitment to public health. Writing for The Spectator allowed me to make scientific concepts accessible, improving my ability to articulate ideas clearly. Additionally, Columbia’s vibrant arts scene, from Miller Theatre performances to Wallach Art Gallery exhibitions, provided a rich cultural balance to my studies. Overall, Columbia offered a holistic education, blending rigorous science, arts, and community involvement, preparing me well for the future.... Read 1,372 reviews
#6 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Columbia University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
1372 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says As a biochemistry student at Columbia University, my experience was extraordinary. The Core Curriculum was a highlight, exposing me to literature, philosophy, art history, and music. This...Beyond academics, I loved engaging with the community through Peer Health Exchange (now S-HEAL), where I educated high school students on health and wellness. This experience enhanced my...Writing for The Spectator allowed me to make scientific concepts accessible, improving my ability to articulate ideas clearly. Additionally, Columbia’s vibrant arts scene, from Miller Theatre...Overall, Columbia offered a holistic education, blending rigorous science, arts, and community involvement, preparing me well for the future..
Read 1372 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 4%,
Net Price: $22,058,
SAT Range: 1490-1580,
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Sophomore: Princeton University is certainly an academically rigorous college. It attracts students who hold themselves to high standards which, due to grade deflation, adds to the stress of most students. The campus is beautiful in the more historic part of campus. The newer buildings are very clean and there are several food options. I don’t ever feel the need to snack with the amount of options I have in the undergraduate meal plan. Many of the student organizations are wonderful and everyone is very passionate about their field. It is certainly not an athletic school but alumni are extremely passionate about Princeton pride.... Read 474 reviews
#7 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Princeton University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PRINCETON, NJ,
474 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Princeton University is certainly an academically rigorous college. It attracts students who hold themselves to high standards which, due to grade deflation, adds to the stress of most students. The....
Read 474 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $18,698,
SAT Range: 1490-1580,
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Freshman: Yale is amazing overall! Campus is full of activities and there's always something to do. New Haven may not be the greatest city in America, but that just makes students be more active on campus and creates a sense of community! Yale also has the perfect balance of academics, extracurriculars, and social life, or as we like to think about it, the 8/8/8 rule: 8 hours of studying, 8 of sleep, and 8 of social life.... Read 1,060 reviews
#8 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Yale University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW HAVEN, CT,
1060 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Yale is amazing overall! Campus is full of activities and there's always something to do. New Haven may not be the greatest city in America, but that just makes students be more active on campus and....
Read 1060 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $18,647,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
#9 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Brown University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PROVIDENCE, RI,
1086 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I love Brown so much and can hardly imagine going to a different school! However, I'd love to see more support regarding challenges students from various backgrounds may face specifically transitions....
Read 1086 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $26,723,
SAT Range: 1490-1580,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Freshman: It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be transformative and rewarding. Instead of focusing on the negatives, perhaps you could consider exploring constructive criticism or discussing specific areas for improvement in the college experience. This approach allows for a more balanced and productive discussion that can lead to positive changes and improvements in the education system. If you have specific concerns about your college experience, it might be helpful to address them directly with the appropriate channels within your institution or seek support from counselors or advisors. Remember, challenges are a natural part of any educational journey, and there are often resources available to help navigate them.... Read 1,363 reviews
#10 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
University of Pennsylvania
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PHILADELPHIA, PA,
1363 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be....
Read 1363 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $26,123,
SAT Range: 1500-1570,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
#11 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Duke University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1212 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Duke is a great community! While classes were difficult, challenged us to think critically, and were competitive by nature, I believe Duke students worked hard to help each other learn and succeed.....
Read 1212 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $23,694,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Alum: I believe that Dartmouth College provides every opportunity to have an enriching and enjoyable experience as long as you advocate for your own interests. In particular, the quantity and quality of activities that utilize the beautiful natural locations all around the campus cannot be understated. It is possible to find a supportive social circle within and outside of the greek system. Academic experiences vary by department, but in general professors are supportive and empathetic while still encouraging intellectual growth.... Read 750 reviews
#12 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Dartmouth College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HANOVER, NH,
750 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I believe that Dartmouth College provides every opportunity to have an enriching and enjoyable experience as long as you advocate for your own interests. In particular, the quantity and quality of....
Read 750 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $19,208,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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Alum: I enjoyed my time at Hyde Park! I thought that the school challenged me strongly and prepared me well for post-college life. The curriculum was thoughtful and the range of classes to take outside of my major was diverse. The campus is beautiful and well-maintained and easy to get around. Given the location, the school takes security very seriously and the UCPD is well-versed in the neighborhood and addresses it accordingly. I know it's referred to as "where fun goes to die" but the students make their own fun! And having the city of Chicago to enjoy is a large benefit as well.... Read 1,302 reviews
#13 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
University of Chicago
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1302 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I enjoyed my time at Hyde Park! I thought that the school challenged me strongly and prepared me well for post-college life. The curriculum was thoughtful and the range of classes to take outside of....
Read 1302 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $36,991,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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Sophomore: Pomona is the best place if you're into a small college environment, down-to-earth really intellectual people, and are open to learn new subjects! I have grown so much in my semesters here, and I feel set up to succeed in the future. The college has free food and events everywhere, and there's always something to do alongside your classes (and, if not, you can always lay out in the beautiful sun). Would highly recommend going on On-The-Loose trips, where you can go on backpacking trips, overnight beach trips, etc. Pomona has been the perfect fit, and I couldn't ask for a better college experience. Oh, and the professors? They are amazing! Super supportive and, while it is a very rigorous place, the professors are rooting for you to achieve.... Read 427 reviews
#14 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Pomona College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
427 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Pomona is the best place if you're into a small college environment, down-to-earth really intellectual people, and are open to learn new subjects! I have grown so much in my semesters here, and I....
Read 427 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $19,962,
SAT Range: 1480-1560,
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Junior: Attending Northwestern University allows me to be of service to people in my community. Its strong emphasis on community service and social justice aligns perfectly with my goals of advocating for systemic change. By participating in Northwestern’s outreach programs and leveraging its vast network, I bring attention to the issues plaguing our community and work towards sustainable solutions. The process to switch majors within McCormick is seamless. Starting at Weignberg my freshman year, I had to wait a whole quarter before switching schools and major.... Read 1,495 reviews
#15 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Northwestern University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
EVANSTON, IL,
1495 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Attending Northwestern University allows me to be of service to people in my community. Its strong emphasis on community service and social justice aligns perfectly with my goals of advocating for...The process to switch majors within McCormick is seamless. Starting at Weignberg my freshman year, I had to wait a whole quarter before switching schools and major..
Read 1495 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $22,095,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Senior: I have overall had a great experience with Vanderbilt University, and I am truly sad that it is my last year coming up in the fall. I think that community is something that Vanderbilt does well, as everyone is so collaborative and kind! I think what needs to change is the Chancellor's office needs to hear student voices. Often times, his office makes really weird and sometimes dumb decisions without considering what it will look like for students, and it is really frustrating to not have our voices heard and listened to.... Read 1,358 reviews
#16 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Vanderbilt University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NASHVILLE, TN,
1358 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I have overall had a great experience with Vanderbilt University, and I am truly sad that it is my last year coming up in the fall. I think that community is something that Vanderbilt does well, as....
Read 1358 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $25,606,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Junior: Hopkins is regarded for its academic prowess, research contributions, and the opportunities it provides to its students. It is undoubtedly a hub for cutting-edge research across various disciplines. Students have ample opportunities via multiple platforms offered by the university, such as ForagerOne and database offered by the Hopkins Office of Undergraduate Research, to engage in research projects and work alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. In terms of cost and financial aid, like many private universities in the U.S., tuition and fees at JHU can be quite high. Improving accessibility through increased financial aid offerings could benefit more students. Regarding community engagement, community engagement efforts both within Baltimore and globally are emphasized and can strengthen ties and foster a greater sense of social responsibility among students and faculty.... Read 1,414 reviews
#17 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Johns Hopkins University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BALTIMORE, MD,
1414 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Hopkins is regarded for its academic prowess, research contributions, and the opportunities it provides to its students. It is undoubtedly a hub for cutting-edge research across various disciplines.....
Read 1414 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $24,034,
SAT Range: 1520-1570,
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Alum: I chose to attend Swarthmore College because they had the best financial aid package which made higher education for a first-gen, low-income student like myself possible. Besides the financial aid, I really enjoyed the small campus community where I developed relationships with my closest friends today as well as met my partner in life. It was at Swarthmore where I realized my dream of becoming a teacher practitioner and scholar which is what I am pursuing post-grad. I am indebted to my professors who were dedicated to scholarship that was aimed at improving educational and livelihood outcomes both on and outside of Swarthmore's campus. I would highly recommend taking classes in the sociology/ anthropology and educational studies department. There are some truly amazing professors at this school who are looking to get to know you and support you on whatever journey is ahead of you! Another thing I really liked about Swarthmore was its proximity to Philadelphia.... Read 430 reviews
#18 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Swarthmore College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SWARTHMORE, PA,
430 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I chose to attend Swarthmore College because they had the best financial aid package which made higher education for a first-gen, low-income student like myself possible. Besides the financial aid, I...I would highly recommend taking classes in the sociology/ anthropology and educational studies department. There are some truly amazing professors at this school who are looking to get to know you...Another thing I really liked about Swarthmore was its proximity to Philadelphia..
Read 430 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $20,715,
SAT Range: 1440-1560,
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Sophomore: My experience at the Naval Academy has been very unique and memorable one. This school is founded upon the creation of military leaders, academic scholars, and future leaders of America. I love the mission of the Academy and the extremely demanding daily grind that we must persist through. However, I feel that the only change I would like to see is the culture of the student body which can only be changed by the leadership. We are told everyday to love and respect each other but it seems like those words only go in one ear and out the other the second we are left alone. Only company leadership can restructure some of the toxic culture that can build up. Leave no one left behind and helping out one another is the main issue.... Read 254 reviews
#19 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
United States Naval Academy
4 Year,
ANNAPOLIS, MD,
254 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says My experience at the Naval Academy has been very unique and memorable one. This school is founded upon the creation of military leaders, academic scholars, and future leaders of America. I love the....
Read 254 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
SAT Range: 1200-1440,
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Sophomore: Coming from a somewhat big city, I wasn't sure what to expect from a small college town like Ithaca. But after a short year at Cornell, I absolutely love it. Although there isn't a whole lot to do, there's enough, and this bonds you with your peers and allows you to fully dive into your academics. Aside from Ithaca, I also think Cornell is the perfect size for a school. It's big so it's pretty busy and there's always parties and social gatherings, and you don't have to see your opps that frequently, but it's also small enough to see familiar faces on your way to class!... Read 2,093 reviews
#20 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Cornell University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ITHACA, NY,
2093 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Coming from a somewhat big city, I wasn't sure what to expect from a small college town like Ithaca. But after a short year at Cornell, I absolutely love it. Although there isn't a whole lot to do,...Aside from Ithaca, I also think Cornell is the perfect size for a school. It's big so it's pretty busy and there's always parties and social gatherings, and you don't have to see your opps that....
Read 2093 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $26,060,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
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Junior: The most significant part of my time at Amherst is the people. They make what might seem monotonous, day-to-day life in Western MA an extremely fun and unique experience. Some aspects of Amherst such as the dining or housing leaves things to be desired. I know the new student center and dining hall is set to open in a couple years, but that has certainly been a big negative as someone with dietary restrictions. Also, housing, especially for sophomores, is particularly bad although it has gotten better as the wave of students who took a gap semester/year due to covid have graduated. Besides this, the quality of academic and social life is unmatched. I can go on and on for days about Amherst, but in summary it truly is a special place and I have loved my time here.... Read 327 reviews
#21 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Amherst College
4 Year,
AMHERST, MA,
327 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says The most significant part of my time at Amherst is the people. They make what might seem monotonous, day-to-day life in Western MA an extremely fun and unique experience. Some aspects of Amherst such....
Read 327 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $21,367,
SAT Range: 1420-1550,
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Alum: Amazing food, great dorms, and professors that changed my whole perspective on life. I got very sick of the institutional bureaucracy but that might have been true at any college I went to. Other students of color -- be very aware that this is a PWI in a major way, it can be VERY isolating and disheartening. If you go here, I encourage you to ask for support and hold your people close. They have a lot of funding opportunities for research projects and individual interest projects. Take advantage of their huge endowment and apply for grants to do things you're interested in! Hang in there y'all... Read 732 reviews
#22 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Bowdoin College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BRUNSWICK, ME,
732 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Amazing food, great dorms, and professors that changed my whole perspective on life. I got very sick of the institutional bureaucracy but that might have been true at any college I went to. Other....
Read 732 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $22,776,
SAT Range: 1460-1560,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Alum: I really enjoyed my time at Williams College! It is what you make of it - if you reach out and get involved in things you are 100% going to meet really cool, passionate, and extremely smart people that drive you to be better yourself. If you don't- your experience definitely won't be as good. Most professors are excellent and are focused on helping undergraduate students thrive through research and learning. I was part of an athletics team and it really made my time enjoyable there. It was tough to balance everything sometimes but it prepared me for after college life really well. I will say that the food as an athlete was sometimes tough to find enough protein options. Also, the party scene is there but isn't anything crazy.... Read 318 reviews
#23 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Williams College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WILLIAMSTOWN, MA,
318 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I really enjoyed my time at Williams College! It is what you make of it - if you reach out and get involved in things you are 100% going to meet really cool, passionate, and extremely smart people...I was part of an athletics team and it really made my time enjoyable there. It was tough to balance everything sometimes but it prepared me for after college life really well. I will say that the....
Read 318 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $20,965,
SAT Range: 1480-1570,
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Sophomore: Colby is a nice place if one loves nature and hiking, but if you really enjoy living in the city and its convenience, please take a second thought! Most professors are really nice especially if you are in a small department. While a smaller department may suggest less resourceful, you will get the chance to build close relationships with people and get more opportunities from them.... Read 654 reviews
#24 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Colby College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WATERVILLE, ME,
654 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Colby is a nice place if one loves nature and hiking, but if you really enjoy living in the city and its convenience, please take a second thought! Most professors are really nice especially if you....
Read 654 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $16,951,
SAT Range: 1430-1540,
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Sophomore: Rice University is a great school for all-rounders—people who have more than one passion in life and want to explore all these passions together. They emphasize this even in the more intensive majors. They also focus on creating a socially healthy atmosphere for students by allowing student leaders to have a say in campus policies, as well as providing, funding, and promoting social events on campus. They truly cultivate a close-knit community from the start with orientation week and your "o-week" family, whom you will meet with weekly during your first year. There are a lot of peer-led activities and peer leadership opportunities so students can receive help and perspectives from their peers on matters that affect them. Overall all I can say is that if you want a school that challenges you in all facets of your life while also looking after and prioritizing your mental, social, and physical well being that Rice is the best university to meet all those needs.... Read 1,125 reviews
#25 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America.
Rice University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HOUSTON, TX,
1125 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Rice University is a great school for all-rounders—people who have more than one passion in life and want to explore all these passions together. They emphasize this even in the more intensive....
Read 1125 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $19,902,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
SponsoredCollege
Washington and Lee University
4 Year·
LEXINGTON, VA
·
Rating 4.01 out of 5 475
SponsoredCollege
Virginia Commonwealth University
4 Year·
RICHMOND, VA
·
Rating 3.76 out of 5 4,788
SponsoredCollege
Radford University
4 Year·
RADFORD, VA
·
Rating 3.62 out of 5 1,671

The Hardest Colleges To Get In

While meticulously comparing your SAT score and GPA to the norms of colleges you’re applying to can usually give you a good idea of your chance of acceptance, that tactic doesn’t work on top colleges. Some schools are so competitive that they aren't safety schools, or even target schools, for anyone. These are the schools where 1580s and 5.0s are commonplace.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into a Top College

We won't waste your time telling you to take the hardest classes, get the best grades, and ace the SAT/ACT. Those are givens. Beyond excelling in high school, here are some tips to help boost your chances of getting into the colleges with the lowest acceptance rates. Keep in mind, sometimes even with the best stats, it's difficult to get accepted to these competitive colleges.

Apply for early decision

If the college of your dreams offers , consider applying for it. Most selective schools that offer it have a much higher acceptance rate for early applicants. For example, Harvard's normal 5% acceptance rate jumps to 13.4% for early-round applicants.

Focus on your essay

In a sea of applicants with great stats, crafting a can help you stand out. Your essay is one thing you can completely control, and it can have a significant impact on how admissions officers view you.

Avoid cliche topics when you’re writing your essay. Although writing about how volunteering in Costa Rica the summer after sophomore year changed your life can be a compelling essay, it’s more likely to come off as cliched and privileged.

Don’t be afraid to choose an unusual topic for your essay. wrote about decapitated cows’ heads for his essay. Backed by his stellar stats, his unusual essay topic garnered him over a dozen acceptances to colleges, including Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Cornell, Columbia and MIT.

However, even if you don’t have an unusual or dramatic experience to write about, you can still impress admissions officers with mundane topics. wrote about shopping at Costco for her essay and landed a spot at Stanford, the most competitive college on our list, as well as Yale, Columbia, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, and Cornell.

Get strong letters of recommendation

Don't go for a bland recommendation letter from a teacher who barely remembers you. Admission committees want to get to know you through your letters of recommendation. The best way to make that happen is to ensure the people who write them know you and believe in you.

Make your letters count by asking teachers and leaders who’ve spent more than one semester with you and will take the time to write meaningful letters about your contributions and potential.

To avoid getting a hastily-written generic letter, make sure you ask for it well in advance of crunch-time. If you’re applying for early decision, ask at the beginning of your senior year. If you are applying regular decision, don’t wait any longer than mid-November.

Start Your College Application Process

Much of the admissions process may seem opaque and out of your control, but you can take concrete steps to stand out. By applying for early action, writing a stand-out essay, and submitting enthusiastic letters of recommendation, you’ll give your application the best possible chance of getting noticed by even the toughest admissions’ officers.

2024 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in America

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

Minerva University

Minerva University

California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology

Stanford University

Stanford University

Harvard University

Harvard University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Columbia University

Columbia University

Princeton University

Princeton University

Yale University

Yale University

Brown University

Brown University

University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania

Duke University

Duke University

Dartmouth College

Dartmouth College

University of Chicago

University of Chicago

Pomona College

Pomona College

Northwestern University

Northwestern University

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University

Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore College

United States Naval Academy

United States Naval Academy

Cornell University