Ivy League Schools in Georgia: Does Georgia Have Ivies?
What’s Covered:
- Are There Ivy League Schools in Georgia?
- Top 10 Non-Ivy League Schools in Georgia
- What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?
The Ivy League holds a reputation for comprising some of the world’s top universities. All eight of these schools are located in the Northeastern United States. In your college search, you may have also come across terms like Southern Ivies, Little Ivies, or Public Ivies, each referring to different groups of universities across the U.S. So, does Georgia have any such schools? Keep reading to find out what some of the best schools in the state are.
Are There Ivy League Schools in Georgia?
While Georgia boasts numerous esteemed universities and colleges renowned for their academic programs and contributions, it’s important to note that none of them hold official membership in the Ivy League.
The Ivy League label is reserved exclusively for the eight institutions previously mentioned, owing to their rich historical legacy, exceptional academic standards, and distinctive qualities that have solidified their reputation as bastions of higher education.
With that said, Georgia does have excellent and accomplished academic institutions, each with their own valuable contributions to education and research. Some Georgia schools are even considered Public Ivies, which are prestigious in their own right.
Top 10 Non-Ivy League Schools in Georgia
1. Emory University
Location: Atlanta, GA
Acceptance Rate: 15%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1540 SAT / 32-35 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,350
Emory University, renowned for its transformative academic environment, thrives on the cultivation of connections between students and accomplished professors. This collaborative atmosphere empowers students to immerse themselves in research projects ranging from global health initiatives to humanities exploration.
The Emory Scholars program epitomizes this ethos, providing a platform for intellectually curious students to embark on research journeys guided by esteemed faculty mentors. The Emory Global Health Institute, for example, takes students to the forefront of health challenges worldwide, emphasizing the university’s commitment to addressing pressing global issues.
Learn more about Emory University and what it takes to get accepted.
2. Georgia Institute of Technology | Georgia Tech
Location: Atlanta, GA
Acceptance Rate: 13%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1370-1530 SAT / 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 21,000
Georgia Tech, a crucible of innovation, provides students with unparalleled access to industry partnerships that amplify classroom learning. Through programs like CREATE-X, students transform their creative ideas into startups, with access to seed funding, mentorship, and a dedicated community.
Beyond the lab, Georgia Tech’s socially conscious student body participates in initiatives like Serve-Learn-Sustain, where engineering and technology meet social change, enabling students to address real-world challenges from sustainability to equitable technology access.
Learn more about Georgia Tech and what it takes to get accepted.
3. University of Georgia | UGA
Location: Athens, GA
Acceptance Rate: 33%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1300-1470 SAT / 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 32,400
The University of Georgia’s commitment to learning extends to its dynamic partnership with the Atlanta-based CDC, offering students unique opportunities for hands-on public health research. With initiatives like Archway Partnership, students collaborate directly with communities to address local challenges.
UGA’s Center for Undergraduate Research Opportunities (CURO) empowers students to delve into independent research projects, promoting intellectual curiosity and fostering an environment of academic exploration.
UGA is also known for its passionate school spirit and dedicated Bulldog fans. Competing in the SEC athletic conference, this Division I school has everything a football fan could want. Plus, with about a third of students in Greek Life, UGA has a reputation for being a school that offers a desirable traditional college experience.
Learn more about the University of Georgia and what it takes to get accepted.
4. Spelman College
Location: Atlanta, GA
Acceptance Rate: 23.5%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1130-1300 SAT / 22-29 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,500
Spelman College stands as a torchbearer of empowerment, radiating a commitment to social justice through impactful avenues such as the Bonner Office of Civic Engagement. Through this initiative, students engage with local nonprofits, embarking on internships and service roles that channel classroom teachings into tangible community betterment.
The narrative of empowerment extends beyond academics as Spelman’s Women’s Research and Resource Center propels intersectional research that unearths and addresses gender disparities. This distinct dedication exemplifies the college’s ethos of holistic education and societal transformation.
The threads of service, research, and social justice are harmoniously interwoven across Spelman’s campus, creating an atmosphere that cultivates not only cognitive growth, but also a profound commitment to championing marginalized voices and confronting systemic inequalities. Spelman alumni often become pivotal figures in fostering social justice within both their professional trajectories and the communities that they serve.
Learn more about Spelman College and what it takes to get accepted.
5. Berry College
Location: Mount Berry, GA
Acceptance Rate: 64%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: Data not available
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,250
One of Berry’s defining features is its strong emphasis on hands-on learning, exemplified by the college’s Student Enterprises. These enterprises, which encompass fields from hospitality to agriculture, offer students hands-on opportunities to apply classroom theories to real-world contexts. From managing a dairy farm to operating an equestrian center, students develop a deep understanding of industry intricacies while honing their problem-solving skills.
Berry’s hands-on approach to education ensures that graduates are not just well versed in theory, but that they also possess the practical skills needed to make a positive impact in their chosen fields.
Learn more about Berry College and what it takes to get accepted.
6. Mercer University
Location: Macon, GA
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1170-1330 SAT / 25-31 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,720
With an acceptance rate of 66%, Mercer welcomes students into a nurturing environment where they embark on a transformative academic journey. Mercer’s commitment to diversity and service shines through, and the school’s strong ties to the Macon community provide students with ample opportunities for internships, service projects, and collaborations that bridge classroom learning with practical application.
One of Mercer’s standout programs is the Mercer On Mission initiative. This unique program combines international service with academics, enabling students to collaborate on projects that address critical global challenges. From providing healthcare in underserved communities to implementing sustainable solutions, Mercer students not only broaden their perspectives but also make meaningful contributions to the world.
Learn more about Mercer University and what it takes to get accepted.
7. Kennesaw State University | KSU
Location: Kennesaw, GA
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1010-1210 SAT / 19-26 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 46,070
One of KSU’s remarkable attributes is its commitment to experiential learning. Through its signature Coles College of Business, students engage in hands-on projects, internships, and real-world experiences that bridge the gap between theory and application. The university’s strong ties to local industries provide students with opportunities to work alongside professionals, equipping them with the skills and insights needed to thrive in their future careers.
KSU’s emphasis on community engagement extends to the university’s active involvement in public service and civic engagement. Through initiatives like the Community Engagement and Outreach Team, students collaborate with local organizations to address community needs. This engagement not only enriches students’ education but also reinforces the university’s dedication to fostering responsible citizenship and social responsibility.
Learn more about Kennesaw State University and what it takes to get accepted.
8. Agnes Scott College
Location: Decatur, GA
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1160-1340 SAT / 25-31 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 840
Agnes Scott College’s commitment to academic excellence shines through its distinctive SUMMIT curriculum, designed to cultivate leadership, global perspectives, and a personalized educational journey. This innovative curriculum not only imparts specialized knowledge, but also nurtures vital skills in critical thinking and effective communication, which are essential to thrive in our interconnected global landscape.
The college’s unwavering dedication to empowering women is eloquently demonstrated through initiatives like the impactful Catalyst Leadership Fellow Program, which actively nurtures a new cohort of trailblazers primed to break barriers and carve their paths across various industries.
Learn more about Agnes Scott College and what it takes to get accepted.
9. Georgia State University
Location: Atlanta, GA
Acceptance Rate: 55%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 980-1200 SAT / 19-26 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 45,070
The urban backdrop of Georgia State University serves as a catalyst for its dedication to community involvement. Community outreach programs forge partnerships with local entities, allowing students to contribute to enduring solutions that uplift Atlanta’s neighborhoods. There are also urban health initiatives, where research-driven approaches tackle public health disparities, echoing the university’s resolve to extend its impact beyond its confines.
Graduates of Georgia State University step into the world with more than just academic proficiency. They depart with an intricate grasp of the intricate challenges modern societies face. This understanding is a testament to the university’s unwavering focus on producing graduates who possess not only knowledge, but also the compassion and insight needed to effect positive change in an ever-evolving world.
Learn more about Georgia State University and what it takes to get accepted.
10. Morehouse College
Location: Atlanta, GA
Acceptance Rate: 44%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1010-1210 SAT / 18-25 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,800
Enrolling just 2,800 undergraduates, Morehouse College creates an intimate educational environment that shapes future leaders for service. The college’s hallmark tradition, the Crown Forum, takes learning beyond textbooks by hosting distinguished speakers who engage students in pivotal conversations about pressing societal matters. These discussions inspire students to recognize their potential as change-makers.
The essence of Morehouse’s commitment to holistic growth is reflected in its Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel Assistants program. Through this initiative, students step into roles that empower them to lead spiritual and social justice initiatives, solidifying their dedication to community service. This experience fosters a deep sense of purpose, equipping graduates with the tools to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
Learn more about Morehouse College and what it takes to get accepted.
What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?
Given the selectivity of these institutions, it is crucial to have a balanced college list. This means including “safety” schools where your chances of admission are higher, “target” schools where your chances are around the average admitted student, and “reach” schools where your chances may be lower but still possible. All the universities listed above can be considered “reach” schools for many students due to their competitive nature.
Want to discover your chances of admission at one of the top schools in Texas? With these schools in mind, you may have found a college that aligns with your future goals. At CollegeVine, we’re committed to making college guidance accessible to all who want it. That’s why, on our college applications guidance platform, you can use our free chancing engine, build a best-fit school list, and learn how to improve your profile—all for free.
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