Some of the most prestigious and expensive universities around the world command respect from the corporate world. Many of the world’s business juggernauts such as Goldman Sachs, Google and Kirkland & Ellis exclusively hire from Ivy League universities. Many universities around the world hold power and prestige due to its wealthy backing of philanthropists and high tuition fees. Here, we explore the top ranked universities for 2024; which college is best for certain industries and areas of study and which universities have the best impression on your resume.
*Prices are in the currency of the university's residence. Prices are not just inclusive of tuition and fees but an accumulated sum of the total cost of attendance which would include books, board and other expenses)
#1.MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Best known for: Science, Computer Science, Technology, Engineering
Alumni: 11,520
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately $76,894
MIT is a world-renowned institution known for its cutting-edge research and innovation in engineering, computer science, and physical sciences. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, MIT fosters a dynamic learning environment where students and faculty tackle global challenges. Its entrepreneurial spirit has led to numerous technological breakthroughs, shaping industries and impacting society.
#2.University of Cambridge
Best known for: Humanities, Social Sciences and Natural Sciences
Alumni: 20,000
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately £9,250 to £37,510 per year for UK/EU students; £23,958 to £47,025 per year for international students.
Cambridge is a prestigious institution nestled in the historic city of Cambridge, England. Renowned for its academic excellence and rich tradition of scholarship dating back over 800 years, Cambridge offers a diverse range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Its collegiate system fosters a vibrant intellectual community where students engage with leading scholars and pursue interdisciplinary research. With world-class facilities and a picturesque campus, Cambridge provides an inspiring environment for academic and personal growth, producing graduates who are equipped to excel in their chosen fields.
#3.University of Oxford
Best known for: Humanities, Social Sciences and Natural Sciences
Alumni: 24,600
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately £9,250 to £37,510 per year for UK/EU students; £28,410 to £42,285 per year for international students.
Oxford is a prestigious university located in the historic city of Oxford, England. With a legacy spanning over 900 years, Oxford is renowned for its rigorous academics, esteemed faculty, and vibrant intellectual community. Offering a wide range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, Oxford provides students with a transformative educational experience. Its tutorial system allows for personalised learning and in-depth engagement with course materials. Surrounded by stunning architecture and steeped in tradition, Oxford offers students a unique and inspiring environment to pursue their academic passions and develop as global leaders.
#4.Harvard University
Best known for: Law, Business, Medicine and Social Sciences
Alumni: 22,000
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately $54,100 per year (tuition and fees).
Harvard, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is one of the world's most prestigious and influential universities. With a history dating back to 1636, Harvard is renowned for its academic excellence, esteemed faculty, and diverse student body. Offering a wide array of programs across various disciplines, including law, business, medicine, and the humanities, Harvard provides students with unparalleled opportunities for intellectual growth and professional development. Its commitment to innovation and research has made Harvard a global leader in higher education, shaping the future of scholarship and societal change.
#5.Stanford University
Best known for: Computer Science, Engineering, Business
Alumni: 17,381
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately $56,169 per year (tuition and fees).
Stanford, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley in California, is a premier research university known for its cutting-edge innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. With world-class programs in engineering, computer science, business, and more, Stanford attracts top talent from around the globe. Its interdisciplinary approach to education fosters collaboration and creativity, empowering students to tackle complex challenges and drive societal impact. Surrounded by a dynamic ecosystem of technology and innovation, Stanford offers students unparalleled opportunities for research, internships, and networking, preparing them to lead in a rapidly evolving world.
#6.Imperial College London
Best known for: Engineering, Natural Sciences and Medical Sciences
Alumni: 18,000
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately £9,250 to £32,000 per year for UK/EU students; £29,250 to £45,000 per year for international students.
Imperial College London is a world-renowned institution located in the heart of London, United Kingdom. Known for its excellence in science, engineering, medicine, and business, Imperial attracts talented individuals from around the globe. With a focus on practical applications and interdisciplinary research, Imperial fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. Its vibrant campus and strong industry connections provide students with valuable opportunities for real-world experience and professional development. Imperial's commitment to addressing global challenges and pushing the boundaries of knowledge makes it a powerhouse of innovation and discovery, shaping the future of science and technology.
#7. ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Best known for: Engineering and Physical Sciences
Alumni: 21,000
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately CHF 580 to CHF 760 per semester for Swiss students; CHF 1,340 to CHF 1,720 per semester for international students.
ETH Zurich, located in Zurich, Switzerland, is a leading research university renowned for its excellence in engineering, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. With a strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, ETH Zurich fosters a culture of curiosity and exploration. Its state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative research centres attract top talent from around the world, driving advancements in technology and science. ETH Zurich's commitment to excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration positions it as a global leader in education and research, shaping the future of innovation and sustainability.
#8.National University of Singapore
Best known for: Computer Science, Business and Social Science
Alumni: 38,596
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately S$11,700-S$13,960 per year for Singaporean Students and S$29,650 to $S50,950 for International Students.
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is a prestigious institution located in Singapore, recognized for its academic excellence and vibrant multicultural community. With a wide range of programs spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and business, NUS offers students a transformative educational experience. Its strong emphasis on research and innovation, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities, provides students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to global knowledge creation. NUS's commitment to excellence and diversity prepares graduates to excel in a rapidly changing world, making a positive impact on society.
#9. UCL - University College London
Best known for: Humanities, Social Sciences and Medical Science
Alumni: 18,000
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately £9,250 to £28,610 per year for UK/EU students; £19,720 to £41,330 per year for international students.
University College London (UCL) is a leading research university located in the heart of London, United Kingdom. Known for its academic excellence and diverse community, UCL offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, medical sciences, engineering, and more. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and innovation, UCL fosters a culture of collaboration and creativity. Its central location provides students with access to world-class resources and opportunities for personal and professional development. UCL's commitment to addressing global challenges and advancing knowledge makes it a hub of intellectual inquiry and discovery.
#10. University of California, Berkeley
Best known for: Computer Science, Engineering, Economics and Natural Sciences
Alumni: 45,057
Average cost before financial aid: Approximately $37,863 for In-State residents and $67,617 for Out-of-State residents.
The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), located in Berkeley, California, is a premier public research university known for its academic excellence and commitment to social impact. With world-class programs in a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, UC Berkeley attracts top talent from around the world. Its vibrant campus community fosters intellectual curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. UC Berkeley's strong ties to industry and government, coupled with its innovative research centres, provide students with opportunities to address pressing global challenges and drive positive change in society.
Honourable Mentions:
Princeton University
Best known for: Mathematics, Economics, Humanities
Alumni: 8,500
Average cost before financial aid: $76,580
Princeton University, located in Princeton, New Jersey, is a prestigious Ivy League institution known for its commitment to excellence in education and research. With a focus on undergraduate teaching and a vibrant residential community, Princeton offers students a personalised and immersive learning experience. Its renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and interdisciplinary approach to education empower students to explore their passions and make meaningful contributions to society. Princeton's picturesque campus, steeped in history and tradition, provides an inspiring backdrop for intellectual growth and personal development.
Yale University
Best known for: Law, Medicine, Humanities
Alumni: 14,775
Average cost before financial aid: $80,300
Yale University, situated in New Haven, Connecticut, is an esteemed Ivy League institution renowned for its rich academic tradition and vibrant campus culture. With world-class programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional schools, Yale offers students a transformative educational experience. Its renowned faculty, diverse student body, and commitment to interdisciplinary research foster a dynamic intellectual community where students are encouraged to think critically, challenge assumptions, and pursue their passions. Yale's historic campus, characterised by stunning architecture and lush green spaces, provides an inspiring setting for learning and personal growth.
University of Pennsylvania
Best known for: Business, Law, Medicine
Alumni: 28,100
Average cost before financial aid: $80,232
The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a prestigious Ivy League institution known for its rigorous academics and innovative research. With world-class programs in a wide range of disciplines, including business, law, medicine, and the humanities, UPenn offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary educational experience. Its renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant campus community provide students with unparalleled opportunities for intellectual growth and professional development. UPenn's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social impact empowers students to become leaders in their fields and make a positive difference in the world.