What Are the Big Ten Schools? Should You Attend One?
What’s Covered:
- Which Schools Are in the Big Ten?
- A Closer Look at the Big Ten Schools
- What Are the Defining Features of the Big Ten?
- Should You Attend a Big Ten School?
- What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?
Many college hopefuls have heard of the Big Ten Schools, but you might not know exactly what the Big Ten refers to in its various contexts. In this post we’ll outline which colleges are in the Big Ten, where the title comes from, and what you need to know about these schools. If you’re considering applying to these schools, we’ll also go over the admissions criteria and unique aspects of each university.
Which Schools Are in the Big Ten?
Like the Ivy League, the term Big Ten started as an athletic conference, which was founded by Purdue University in 1895. It was formerly known as the Big Nine and the Western Conference, and is now sometimes known by the stylized term B1G. Although its name implies otherwise, there are actually 18 schools currently in the Big Ten. These schools are located primarily in the Midwest. They are all in NCAA Division I and compete in the Football Bowl Subdivision.
The schools in the Big Ten include:
| School | Location | Acceptance Rate | CollegeVine Ranking | Middle 50% SAT | Undergrad Enrollment |
| Indiana University Bloomington | Bloomington, Indiana | 85% | 199 | 1230–1430 | 37,000 |
| Michigan State University | East Lansing, Michigan | 83% | 188 | 1100-1310 | 39,200 |
| Northwestern University | Evanston, Illinois | 7% | 13 | 1500-1560 | 8,800 |
| Ohio State University | Columbus, Ohio | 57% | 116 | 1260-1420 | 46,100 |
| Pennsylvania State University | University Park, Pennsylvania | 54% | 134 | 1250-1410 | 40,300 |
| Purdue University | West Lafayette, Indiana | 50% | 119 | 1210-1470 | 38,500 |
| Rutgers University–New Brunswick | New Brunswick, New Jersey | 68% | 140 | 1270-1480 | 36,300 |
| University of California, Los Angeles | Los Angeles, California | 11% | 55 | Not considered | 32,400 |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, Illinois | 42% | 133 | 1390-1520 | 37,100 |
| University of Iowa | Iowa City, Iowa | 86% | 279 | 1140-1310 | 22,100 |
| University of Maryland, College Park | College Park, Maryland | 45% | 108 | 1410-1520 | 30,300 |
| University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, Michigan | 18% | 31 | 1360-1530 | 34,500 |
| University of Minnesota Twin Cities | Minneapolis, Minnesota | 73% | 117 | 1320-1470 | 31,900 |
| University of Nebraska–Lincoln | Lincoln, Nebraska | 81% | 285 | 1090-1310 | 19,100 |
| University of Oregon | Eugene, Oregon | 85% | 334 | 1130-1360 | 20,000 |
| University of Southern California | Los Angeles, California | 10% | 27 | 1450-1530 | 21,000 |
| University of Washington | Seattle, Washington | 43% | 89 | Not considered | 35,400 |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, Wisconsin | 43% | 97 | 1370-1490 | 36,900 |
A Closer Look at the Big Ten Schools
1. Indiana University
Location: Bloomington, Indiana
Acceptance rate: 85%
CollegeVine Ranking: 199
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1230–1430 SAT / 28-33 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 37,000
Indiana University has a beautiful sprawling campus lined with trees and white stone buildings. The main campus is integrated into the city of Bloomington, with a population of 79,000. In common culture, IU is probably best known for its basketball team, which has won 22 Big Ten Championships, and has the best winning percentage at conference games.
Beyond its athletics, IU has the extremely prestigious Jacobs School of Music. It’s produced the likes of Joshua Bell (violin) and David Baker (jazz composer and musician). The Kelley School of Business is also top-notch, and is consistently highly ranked.
2. Michigan State University
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
Acceptance rate: 83%
CollegeVine Ranking: 188
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1100-1310 SAT / 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 39,200
MSU began as a college of agriculture in 1855, but has since expanded to offer more than 200 programs of study. The College of Agriculture & Natural Study remains one of MSU’s flagship programs, but it is also well-known for its College of Education, which has ranked very highly for decades.
The school also offers one of the weirdest college majors in the country: Packaging Science. While it may seem fairly straightforward, packaging has many behind-the-scenes considerations, such as materials, design, and environmental impact.
3. Northwestern University
Location: Evanston, Illinois
Acceptance rate: 7%
CollegeVine Ranking: 13
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1500-1560 SAT / 33-35 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,800
Northwestern is the “odd one out” of the 18 Big Ten Schools. It’s the only private college with an undergraduate enrollment of under 20,000 (though its total enrollment is 22,801). It also has the lowest acceptance rate and highest level of prestige.
Northwestern is perfect for high-achieving students seeking academics on-par with the Ivy League, but also seeking the liveliness and school spirit of a Big Ten school. Students also enjoy easy access to the major metropolitan area of Chicago. Academically, the university is best-known for its Medill School of Journalism and Bienen School of Music.
4. Ohio State University
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Acceptance rate: 57%
CollegeVine Ranking: 116
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1260-1420 SAT / 26-32 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 46,100
OSU (or THE Ohio State University, as students will have you know), is located near downtown Columbus, Ohio. The campus blends with the city, and sprawls across 1,764 acres. Without a doubt, the university’s standout feature is its football team. The Buckeyes have won nine national championships, 39 conference championships, and have 10 undefeated seasons. Football is a major part of the campus culture, and games draw tens of thousands of spectators to Ohio Stadium.
Outside of football, OSU has 200+ undergraduate majors, including Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Insurance, Islamic Studies, Interior Design, and Meat Science.
5. Pennsylvania State University
Location: University Park, Pennsylvania
Acceptance rate: 54%
CollegeVine Ranking: 134
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1250-1410 SAT / 27-32 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 40,300
Penn State is another university with a powerhouse football team. The Nittany Lions joined the Big Ten in 1993, and have since won four conference championships. Outside of sports, Greek life thrives at Penn State. There are 70 fraternities and sororities, and 17% of the massive student body participates in them.
In academics, Penn State is known for its robust engineering program, which is among the top 20 in the U.S. The Smeal College of Business is also a quality option for students hoping to study consulting, entrepreneurship, finance, leadership, marketing, and management.
6. Purdue University
Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
Acceptance rate: 50%
CollegeVine Ranking: 119
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1210-1470 SAT / 27-34 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 38,500
Purdue is another university that’s particularly strong in engineering. Its engineering school is consistently ranked in top 10 in the country, and it even graduated Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon. The College of Engineering offers undergraduate degrees in nearly 20 areas, including Interdisciplinary Engineering and Nuclear Engineering.
Beyond STEM, Purdue is also home to a College of Liberal Arts with programs in political science, anthropology, communication, languages, interdisciplinary studies and more. There is even a special option for students in this college to graduate in 3 years, saving them money and allowing them to enter the workforce earlier.
7. Rutgers University–New Brunswick
Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey
Acceptance rate: 68%
CollegeVine Ranking: 140
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1270-1480 SAT / 28-33 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 36,300
Rutgers students get to experience college town life in New Brunswick, all while being sandwiched between major cities NYC and Philly. NYC is only a 30-minute train ride away and Philly is 2 hours away by train. Rutgers as an institution carries a lot of history, being the eighth-oldest college in the U.S., and the birthplace of college football.
Rutgers offers a variety of academic programs on its flagship campus, with nine undergraduate schools in business, planning and public policy, arts and sciences, environmental and biological sciences, management and labor relations, communication and information, engineering, arts, and social work.
8. University of California, Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles, California
Acceptance rate: 11%
CollegeVine Ranking: 55
SAT/ACT scores are not considered for admission
Undergraduate Enrollment: 32,400
UCLA offers over 140 undergraduate majors, excelling in fields like engineering, life sciences, business, and the arts. The university fosters a collaborative, research-driven environment, preparing students for success in a global landscape. Its School of Theater, Film, and Television is particularly notable, and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
Since joining the Big Ten in 2024, UCLA has been thriving in sports like football, basketball, and volleyball, consistently competing for conference titles with top talent and cutting-edge facilities.
9. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Location: Champaign, Illinois
Acceptance rate: 42%
CollegeVine Ranking: 133
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1390-1520 SAT / 30-34 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 37,100
UIUC is one of the top public research universities in the country. Undergraduate students can conduct research in any field, from Physics to Speech and Hearing Sciences. Actual student research projects include “Investigating cheap and scalable methods of creating electronics” and “Homelessness and language in native Spanish-speakers.” UIUC even has an annual, weeklong undergraduate research symposium, where students can showcase their work.
In the social sphere, UIUC is home to 90 fraternities and sororities, and about 23.5% of the study body participates in Greek life. Beyond that, the university has 800+ registered student organizations, and 50,000 square feet of indoor recreation space (including a climbing wall!), so you’re sure to find something that matches your interests.
10. University of Iowa
Location: Iowa City, Iowa
Acceptance rate: 86%
CollegeVine Ranking: 279
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1140-1310 SAT / 21-28 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 22,100
The University of Iowa was the first public university to admit women and men equally, which it began doing in 1855. It’s also a pioneer in healthcare, as the university has one of the best hospitals in America. Forbes even ranked it among the top 5 healthcare employers in the country, and many important medical discoveries have come out of the university hospital’s research.
As an exception to popular opinion about the Midwest, Iowa City is said to be one of the best college towns and places to live. It is even recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature, a title granted to cities especially active in quality and diverse literature, through publishing, events, education, and other criteria.
11. University of Maryland, College Park
Location: College Park, Maryland
Acceptance rate: 45%
CollegeVine Ranking: 108
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1520 SAT / 32-35 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 30,300
The University of Maryland is just eight miles away from our nation’s capital, leading to unique opportunities for students in journalism, public policy, public health, and political science. UMD has an especially diverse study body for a public school, with 120+ countries represented. The university is also considered a top school in terms of best value, being consistently ranked in the top 10.
UMD offers 100 majors across 12 colleges, and you can also create your own major through the Individual Studies program.
12. University of Michigan
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Acceptance rate: 18%
CollegeVine Ranking: 31
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1360-1530 SAT / 31-34 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 34,500
UMich is one of the most highly-respected and selective public universities in the nation. It’s even considered one of the Public Ivies, a group of public institutions with academics whose quality rivals that of the Ivy League. It’s often highly ranked as one of the best-value colleges.
The University of Michigan is well-known for its research, and is #1 in research volume among public research universities in the U.S. Over 1,500 students participated in the Undergraduate Research Program in 2019. The school is also a top producer of inventions and startups, so aspiring entrepreneurs will find strong mentorship here.
UMich has a long-time football rivalry with OSU, and both schools play up this “contentious” relationship during football season.
13. University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Location: Twin Cities, Minnesota
Acceptance rate: 73%
CollegeVine Ranking: 117
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1320-1470 SAT / 26-31 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,900
The University of Minnesota’s main campus is located in the bustling Twin Cities area, which is known for its culture, arts, food, and diversity. Students will need to prepare for the harsh Minnesota winters, however, as the campus is covered in snow from November through March (though it may be reassuring to know that there are tunnels connecting most buildings).
The university encourages research and service learning, with many opportunities for undergrads to do hands-on learning. In terms of the community and housing, the school offers 30+ living-learning communities, giving students the chance to connect with others over a shared interest. Some examples of these communities include those for Black women, students in STEM, and those passionate about training service dogs!
14. University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Acceptance rate: 81%
CollegeVine Ranking: 285
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1090-1310 SAT / 22-28 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 19,100
The University of Nebraska’s main campus is located in Lincoln, Nebraska, which has a population of about 295,000. Lincoln is among a handful of cities in the U.S. with the most parkland per capita, so outdoorsy students will like the school’s location. The city is also considered one of the most livable in the country, and has some of the lowest healthcare costs in the U.S.
On-campus, students can choose from eight undergraduate colleges in agricultural sciences and natural resources, architecture, arts and sciences, business, education and human sciences, engineering, fine and performing arts, and journalism and mass communications.
15. University of Oregon
Location: Eugene, Oregon
Acceptance rate: 85%
CollegeVine Ranking: 334
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1130-1360 SAT / 23-30 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,000
The University of Oregon in Eugene offers a broad range of programs in fields like journalism, business, and environmental science, with a strong focus on research, sustainability, and hands-on learning. Its scenic campus and innovative facilities support a vibrant academic experience for its students, who hail from over 90 countries!
Student life is active and inclusive, with over 400 clubs, a lively arts scene, and spirited athletics. Whether exploring the outdoors or engaging in campus events like painting the Big “O” at Skinner Butte, students find plenty of ways to get involved and build community.
16. University of Southern California
Location: Los Angeles, California
Acceptance rate: 10%
CollegeVine Ranking: 27
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1450-1530 SAT / 32-35 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 21,000
The University of Southern California (USC), located in Los Angeles, is a top-ranked private research university known for its strong programs in film, business, engineering, and the arts. With global partnerships and cutting-edge facilities, USC emphasizes innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence.
Student life at USC is energetic and diverse, offering over 1,000 student organizations, competitive athletics, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Its location in L.A. provides endless opportunities for internships, networking, and entertainment beyond campus.
17. University of Washington
Location: Seattle, Washington
Acceptance rate: 43%
CollegeVine Ranking: 89
SAT/ACT scores are not considered for admission
Undergraduate Enrollment: 35,400
The University of Washington (UW) in Seattle is a leading public research university known for its strengths in medicine, engineering, computer science, and environmental studies. With a focus on innovation and public service, UW offers world-class faculty, research opportunities, and a scenic campus in the heart of a major hub of technology.
Student life at UW is vibrant and inclusive, featuring hundreds of student organizations, rigorous athletics, and easy access to Seattle’s cultural and outdoor offerings. Whether engaging in research, activism, or recreation, UW students generally find a strong sense of community and purpose.
18. University of Wisconsin–Madison
Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Acceptance rate: 43%
CollegeVine Ranking: 97
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1370-1490 SAT / 29-33 ACT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 36,900
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is situated between two lakes, making it perfect for outdoor activities like running, biking, and sailing—though be ready to face the brutal Wisconsin winters! UW–Madison has a reputation for being a party school (as do many of the Big 10 Schools), but it’s also known for its stellar academics. The school offers 200+ undergraduate majors, including agronomy, art education, zoology, and interior architecture.
Public service is encouraged, and hundreds of students volunteer during their time at UW–Madison. The university operates under “The Wisconsin Idea,” which is the belief that one’s education should influence others’ lives outside the bounds of the classroom.
What Are the Defining Features of the Big Ten?
Since its founding as an original athletic conference over a century ago, the term Big Ten has grown to refer to these colleges outside of athletics as well. They are similar in many ways, so the term Big Ten has come to embody those similarities in addition to the common athletic conference that member schools share.
Enrollment:
The Big Ten schools are generally large, public research universities. Only Northwestern and USC are private, and only Northwestern has an undergraduate enrollment under 10,000—the others generally have undergrad enrollments above 20,000, sometimes well above even that! Together, they currently boast over 565,000 students total and 5.7 million living alumni.
Research and Funding:
Although their title began as an athletic conference, the Big Ten has also become synonymous with quality academic programs and strong alumni networks. The resources afforded by such an extensive alumni association mean that Big Ten schools generally have substantial endowments. Each year, the Big Ten engage in over $10 billion in funded research, which is far greater than the $4.5 billion of the Ivy League, and the $4.6 billion of the UC system.
One major benefit to being a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance is its inter-institution lending library that allows members instant access to each member’s extensive libraries. In addition, schools commonly share faculty when their expertise is needed at another university. Similarly, students can transfer credits easily and directly from one member school to another.
In general, students at these schools benefit not only from the resources afforded by their own large and well-funded research universities, but also from the resources of the other member schools.
Athletics:
Of course, being founded as an athletic conference means that the Big Ten schools have a lot in common when it comes to athletics. Athletics at these schools typically are a big deal within the student and alumni communities. Games are played in lavish athletic facilities and are often televised nationally. Most of the Big Ten schools spend (and ultimately make) a significant amount of money related to their athletic programs. Some Big Ten schools make millions of dollars each year from athletic revenue.
Because athletics are such a defining feature at each of these schools, students can expect a culture on campus that values athletics. They frequently gather for game days, celebrate victories, and closely follow the progress of popular athletic teams. Student athletes often receive scholarships and some go on to play professionally.
Selectivity:
While the Big Ten schools are generally not amongst the most selective in the country, they still boast impressive admissions statistics. All have average SAT scores around of above 1200. Acceptance rates have a broader range, from Northwestern’s 7% to University of Iowa’s 86%.
Should You Attend a Big Ten School?
Big Ten schools represent some of the most highly ranked public schools in the country. They have vast resources, many student organizations and clubs, and usually reasonable tuition and fees, particularly for in-state students.
All of the Big Ten schools are known for their culture of school spirit. Unsurprisingly, this is largely rooted in their athletic programs. Football games at these schools generally have attendance and energy levels that rival NFL games. Many students consider this a major bonus of attending one of these schools, but many others could do without it. Only you can decide if a culture rooted in college athletics is the right environment for you.
In addition, big public universities aren’t the best choice for everyone. Typically, these schools are less geographically diverse, since tuition is discounted so steeply for in-state students. Intro level classes routinely have hundreds of students and are held in big lecture halls. There are fewer opportunities for getting to know your professors, but more opportunities to be involved in serious research through higher level classes.
The Big Ten isn’t the right fit for everyone, but students who are looking for a large research university with strong athletics and extensive resources should consider these schools among their top choices.
What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?
Wondering if you have what it takes to get into a Big Ten university? We can help! To better understand your chances at these schools, we recommend using our free admissions calculator. Using your grades, test scores, and extracurriculars, we’ll estimate your odds of acceptance and give you tips on improving your profile.
You can also search for best-fit schools based on your chances, and on other factors like size, location, majors, and more. This tool will make it a lot easier to create a strategy for your college application process.
