The Hidden Ivies

The Hidden Ivies is a comprehensive guide to selective colleges and universities beyond the eight Ivy League schools. The book examines over 60 institutions that offer comparable academic rigor and opportunities to the traditional Ivies. The authors provide detailed profiles of each school, including information about admissions requirements, campus culture, academic programs, and student life. Statistical data accompanies narrative descriptions of what makes each institution distinctive within American higher education. The book includes practical advice for the college search and application process, with guidance on evaluating schools, preparing applications, and understanding financial aid options. Interview excerpts from students, faculty, and administrators offer direct perspectives on these institutions. The work challenges conventional thinking about elite education, suggesting that excellence and opportunity exist at many institutions beyond the most famous names. This expanded view of top-tier education speaks to students and families seeking alternatives to the standard roster of prestigious schools.

Readers describe this as an informative directory of selective colleges beyond the Ivy League, though many note it's becoming outdated (last updated 2016). Readers appreciated: - Detailed campus culture descriptions - Clear explanations of each school's academic strengths - Helpful context about admission requirements - Good starting point for college research Common criticisms: - Information can be found free online - Some school descriptions feel generic - East Coast bias in school selection - Price too high for outdated content - Missing newer programs and changes Several readers noted the book focuses too much on prestige and rankings rather than fit. One reviewer said "it perpetuates the harmful myth that selective equals better." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (124 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (167 ratings) The 2016 edition receives lower scores than earlier versions, with multiple reviewers suggesting waiting for an updated edition before purchasing.

Excellent Sheep by William Deresiewicz This critique of elite education examines the pressures and culture at prestigious universities while offering perspectives on the true purpose of higher education.

Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be by Frank Bruni The book presents research and real-world cases demonstrating how success stems from student drive rather than college brand names.

The Price of Admission by Daniel Golden An investigation into the admissions practices at elite universities reveals the role of wealth, legacy status, and institutional preferences in student selection.

The Gatekeepers by Jacques Steinberg A behind-the-scenes look at Wesleyan University's admissions process shows how selective colleges choose their incoming classes.

Looking Beyond the Ivy League by Loren Pope This guide identifies lesser-known colleges that deliver strong academic experiences and student outcomes comparable to elite institutions.

🎓 The book covers 63 exceptional colleges and universities beyond the traditional Ivy League, helping students discover lesser-known but academically outstanding institutions. 📚 First published in 2000, the book has undergone multiple editions to stay current, with the latest (3rd) edition released in 2016 reflecting significant changes in college admissions. 👨‍👦 Authors Howard and Matthew Greene are father and son, combining over 40 years of college counseling experience between them and having visited more than 1,000 campuses. 💡 The term "Hidden Ivies" was coined by the authors and has since become widely used in college admissions discussions and literature. 🎯 The book's selection criteria include factors beyond academics, such as student engagement, campus culture, and post-graduation success rates, providing a holistic view of each institution.