We have worked closely with many investor parents who want to provide their children with a world-class higher education, and what better place to find it than in the prestigious universities of the United States. In this article, we explore the 10 best universities in the U.S., which can also be a viable option for families looking to settle through investor visas. From Harvard to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), discover what makes these institutions stand out in the global academic landscape.
Most popular universities in the United States worldwide
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for their academic excellence, innovation, and strong international reputation. For families who are investing and planning to relocate, these universities represent not only academic opportunities but also long-term career and networking advantages.
Harvard University
Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest university in the U.S. and continues to lead in education. For the 2023–2024 academic year, Harvard received 56,937 applications and admitted only 1,966 students, resulting in a highly competitive acceptance rate of 3.5%.
With a graduation rate of 97–98%, Harvard graduates join one of the most influential alumni networks in the world, including Mark Zuckerberg, former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and John F. Kennedy, and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Since its founding in 1861, MIT has been a hub of innovation and excellence in science and technology. During the 2023–2024 academic year, MIT received 26,914 applications, with an acceptance rate of 4.8%.
With a strong emphasis on hands-on education and research, MIT prepares its students to become leaders and problem solvers in their respective fields. In addition, 10% of its student population is international, reflecting its global recognition and reach.
MIT graduates include prominent figures in science, technology, and business, such as Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, and numerous Nobel Prize winners in physics, chemistry, and economics.
Stanford University
Founded in 1885, Stanford University has become a symbol of innovation in Silicon Valley. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit and groundbreaking research, it continues to be one of the most prestigious institutions.
For the 2023–2024 academic year, Stanford’s acceptance rate was 3.68%, remaining one of the lowest and most competitive. The university stands out for its diversity, with 54% women in the freshman class and students from 64 different countries.
Stanford not only provides a world-class education, but also empowers its students to be innovators. Its most influential alumni include Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, and former Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer.
Yale University
Established in 1701, Yale University is a historic institution of tradition and excellence, maintaining its prestige with an extremely competitive acceptance rate. For the 2023–2024 academic year, Yale admitted 2,275 students out of 52,250 applicants, resulting in an acceptance rate of 4.35%.
The university stands out for its liberal arts focus and commitment to diversity and inclusion, offering an enriching and multidisciplinary academic environment.
Yale has educated prominent leaders, including five U.S. Presidents such as George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, as well as numerous Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners, particularly in literature, peace, and economics.
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley is renowned for its excellence in public education and research. For the 2023–2024 academic year, it received 125,910 applications and admitted 14,566 students, with an acceptance rate of 11.6%.
UC Berkeley remains committed to inclusion and diverse perspectives, reflecting its mission to serve both California and the wider world.
The institution has a high graduation rate and has educated several notable figures, such as Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina to hold this position.
University of Chicago
Since its founding in 1890, the University of Chicago has been recognized for its intellectual rigor and academic depth. For the class of 2024, it maintained its selectivity with an acceptance rate of 6.2%, admitting 2,133 students out of 34,400 applicants.
The university distinguishes itself with its focus on critical thinking and research, preparing students to become leaders in their fields. Notable alumni include multiple Nobel Prize laureates and global leaders such as economist Milton Friedman.
Princeton University
Founded in 1746, Princeton University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States and remains highly selective. Although it has not published official admission data for the 2023–2024 academic year, its acceptance rate is estimated at around 5.82%, based on previous trends.
Princeton is recognized for its strong undergraduate teaching and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Famous alumni include Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States, lawyer, and author, as well as Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Established in 1919, UCLA is one of the largest public universities in the U.S. For the 2023–2024 academic year, it received 145,904 applications and admitted 12,779 students, with an acceptance rate of 8.8%.
The university is celebrated for its diversity and academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines. Its alumni include basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, musician Jim Morrison, and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, known for classics such as The Godfather.
Columbia University
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is located in the heart of New York City and serves as a leading hub for research and higher education. Although specific admission statistics for 2023–2024 have not been released, Columbia is widely recognized for its selectivity and commitment to diversity.
Notable alumni include Academy Award–winning director and screenwriter Kathryn Bigelow.
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
Founded in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania is a top research institution. For the 2023–2024 academic year, it received 59,465 applications and had an acceptance rate of 5.8%. Known for its interdisciplinary approach and diverse, engaged student community, the university also maintains a high graduation rate.
Its alumni include global leaders such as Donald Trump, Warren Buffett, and Elon Musk.
The Best Universities in the U.S. Await You
These 10 universities represent the very best of higher education in the United States. Each one carries a rich history, inspiring values, and statistical data that reflect their academic excellence and commitment to student success.
Moreover, exploring investment opportunities in U.S. franchises can be an effective way to finance the costs associated with higher education in the United States. This unique combination of investment and education not only opens the door to a promising future for students but also contributes to the cultural and economic fabric of American society.
At Interlink FBC, we can provide you with the guidance you need to find a franchise that fits your family’s goals. Contact us today!
