Public Ivy Leagues—What's the Deal?

I keep hearing the term 'Public Ivy League.' What does it exactly mean? Is there a definitive list of these schools or is it just a subjective term?

The term "Public Ivy League" refers to public universities that offer a high-quality education and academic experience comparable to that of the private Ivy League institutions. The concept of Public Ivy League was popularized by Richard Moll in his 1985 book "Public Ivies: A Guide to America's Best Public Undergraduate Colleges and Universities." Moll originally identified eight universities as Public Ivies, but the list has since expanded as more institutions have improved their academic offerings and reputations.

While there is no definitive list of Public Ivy League schools, common examples include:

1. University of California, Berkeley

2. University of California, Los Angeles

3. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

4. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

5. University of Virginia

6. College of William & Mary

7. University of Texas, Austin

8. University of Florida

9. University of Washington

10. University of Wisconsin, Madison

It's important to recognize that the term "Public Ivy League" is not an official designation, and the specific institutions included may vary depending on who you ask. It is more of an informal label, meant to highlight exceptional public universities with strong academic programs, research opportunities, and distinguished faculty members.

When considering a Public Ivy, keep in mind that each institution will have its own areas of strength, campus culture, and financial aid offerings. Similar to private Ivy League schools, Public Ivies will have competitive admissions processes. However, tuition at Public Ivies will generally be more affordable (especially for in-state students), making them a popular choice for students seeking an excellent education at a lower cost.

For more on Public Ivies, check out this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/should-you-apply-to-public-ivy-league-schools

In the end, it's essential to research individual schools and compare them based on your specific academic interests, campus preferences, and personal goals to find the best fit for you.