Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Although MIT is often associated with the Ivy League schools, it is actually a private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Stanford University: Known for its exceptional programs in business, engineering, and computer science, Stanford is considered one of the best universities in the world.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Caltech is a small, private research university located in Pasadena, California, and is often considered one of the top science and engineering schools in the country.
Duke University: Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University is a private research university that is often mistaken for an Ivy League school.
Northwestern University: Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University is a private research university that is often mistaken for an Ivy League school due to its academic reputation.
Georgetown University: Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown University is a private research university known for its exceptional programs in international relations, law, and business.
Johns Hopkins University: Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University is a private research university known for its exceptional programs in medicine, public health, and engineering.
Carnegie Mellon University: Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this is a private research university known for its exceptional programs in computer science, engineering, and business.
Rice University: Located in Houston, Texas, Rice University is a private research university known for its exceptional programs in engineering, business, and the natural sciences.