Which colleges are considered the most prestigious in the United States?

Hey everybody, I'm currently a high school junior just beginning my college search. I'm interested in applying to some top-tier schools across the country, but I'm not sure where to start. Does anyone have a list or some suggestions about the most prestigious colleges in the United States?

Defining "prestige" can be a bit subjective as it often depends on individual academic interests, but there are a handful of colleges that are generally regarded highly due to their competitive admissions and reputation for academic rigor.

Here are a few consistent top-tier and university and liberal arts conventions:

Ivy League Universities:

1. Harvard University

2. Yale University

3. Princeton University

4. Columbia University

5. Dartmouth College

6. Brown University

7. University of Pennsylvania

8. Cornell University

Other Elite Universities:

1. Stanford University

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

4. University of Chicago

5. Duke University

6. Northwestern University

7. Johns Hopkins University

Top Liberal Arts Colleges:

1. Williams College

2. Amherst College

3. Swarthmore College

4. Pomona College

5. Claremont McKenna College

Remember, these are just a few examples and there are many other prestigious universities and colleges out there. The most important aspect is to find a school that suits your individual academic and personal needs. Rankings can serve as a guide, but make sure to conduct your own research as well!