ICYMI: These are the "New Ivies."

Author

Goalseye Team
January 25, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

In case you missed it, the traditional Ivy League isn’t the only game in town anymore. According to a recent article by Christopher Rim in the New York Post, schools like Duke, NYU, Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, Emory, and Rice have emerged as the “New Ivies,” offering the same prestige, rigor, and selectivity as their Ivy League counterparts. With rising interest from students worldwide, their acceptance rates have plummeted—NYU now admits just 8% of applicants, down from 35% a decade ago.

These schools are no longer safety options—they’re coveted destinations. But with fierce competition, earning a spot at these institutions requires more than good grades and test scores. Rim highlights three common mistakes students make when applying:

  • Avoid the "Easy A": Admissions officers look for students who challenge themselves with rigorous coursework that aligns with their academic interests.

  • Tailor Your Extracurriculars: A generalized approach won’t cut it. Showcase a passion that aligns with the values of the schools you're targeting. For instance, Notre Dame favors community service, while Rice prioritizes hands-on STEM projects.

  • Master the Supplemental Essays: Demonstrated interest is key. A generic essay about loving New York City won’t impress NYU—research and reference specific programs that make the school a perfect fit for you.

At Goalseye, we focus on helping students plan meaningful extracurriculars to ensure they stand out in the crowd.

Goalseye helps you focus on what truly matters.

At Goalseye, we break down a college-worthy ‘capstone project’ into daily, manageable steps that help your child focus on what truly matters: personal growth, meaningful achievements, and standing out for all the right reasons. With personalized goals and daily consistency, Goalseye makes sure your child is building a strong narrative and preparing for success—all while keeping it fun and stress-free.

Want to learn more about how Goalseye’s gamified approach helps your child stay engaged in the college prep process? Get started today.

P.S. Share this newsletter with other parents who want to give their kids a competitive edge in college applications!

Sources: Inspired by Christopher Rim’s insights in the New York Post. Read the full article here.