The Hardest Universities to Get Accepted Into

Williams College

Williams College, located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, is likely one of the most breathtaking and picturesque college campuses you will find in the whole of the United States – so why wouldn’t you dream of studying here? From its humble beginnings in 1793, this liberal arts gem has grown into a breathtaking campus comprised of 100 charming old-style buildings, soaring clock towers, and beautiful spires scattered among rolling fields of lush green grass sprinkled with stunning trees. Most of us would be more than thrilled to call this place home. However, with an acceptance rate of just 18% each year, getting into Williams College is no easy feat and quite a competitive endeavor!

Washington University of St. Louis

You can tell a college is really important if it’s named after someone pretty famous – and it’s hard to get more famous than former U.S. President, George Washington. Known as a private research haven, the Washington University of St. Louis keeps increasing in popularity as each year goes by. With a history of educating an impressive 25 Nobel Laureates, young hopefuls send in their applications, hoping they might be included in the select 17% fortunate enough to be accepted each year.

Rice University

Rice University, nestled in the metropolis of Houston, Texas, could be your ideal higher education destination. Despite being in the heart of the city, the university’s sprawling 295 acres of grounds and forests transports you to a secluded sanctuary, shared only with the other bright minds that were fortunate enough to be accepted into Rice. Aside from the opportunity to rub shoulders with such illustrious company, Rice University attracts hopeful students with its renowned business school and cutting-edge research facilities. Every year, aspirants hold their breath, wishing to be among the lucky 16% admitted into this esteemed institution.

Bowdoin College

We’re wholly tempted to toss out an old-school wisecrack like, ‘Bow-you-doin?’ but we’ll practice restraint, so as not to make you cringe with our juvenile sense of humor. Since opening its doors wide back in 1794, this personalized liberal arts college has been offering a hearty buffet of 33 different major subjects. Yes, you’re going to have a tough time picking just one. But before that daunting task, there’s another hurdle to clear. You’ve got to be among the slim 15% of hopeful applicants who are accepted yearly to even get your shot at making that big decision.

Cornell University

With a slim acceptance rate of just 15% every year, it’s no wonder that this Ivy League powerhouse is well-known for its high admission standards – a tradition that holds as true today as it did when it was founded. An esteemed establishment, Cornell stands proud as one of the oldest higher education facilities in the US, having been established back in 1865. Over the years, it has flourished and evolved, securing its well-deserved spot amongst the prestigious ‘Big Eight.’ Adding to its impressive list of firsts, Cornell notably became the pioneer in American higher education by opening its lecture halls to both male and female students, a groundbreaking move at the time.