What are some of the most selective urban colleges in the U.S.?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior looking to apply to college next year and I'm really interested in attending a university in a big city. From your experiences, which urban colleges are considered highly selective? Are there specific programs or majors they're known for? Thanks!

There are many selective urban colleges across the U.S. I'll provide a few examples here to help you get started.

1. University of Chicago (Chicago, IL): Ranked among the top universities nationally, UChicago is known for many exceptional programs, such as economics, law, and the social sciences. The campus is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood, giving students the benefits of a residential campus and access to the amenities of a major city.

2. Columbia University (New York, NY): A member of the Ivy League, Columbia is located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan. Its unique Core Curriculum forms the foundation for undergraduate studies. Columbia is also known for its stellar humanities programs, including English and Comparative Literature, and its world-renowned Journalism School (at the graduate level).

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA): Across the river from downtown Boston, MIT is a powerhouse in technological and scientific research. Engineering, computer science, and physics are a few of the top programs at MIT.

4. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA): Located in the heart of Philadelphia, UPenn is known for its top-ranked Wharton School (for undergraduates interested in business) and its strong programs in nursing and bioengineering.

5. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA): USC is located near downtown Los Angeles. It's recognized for its programs in business, cinematic arts, and engineering.

Remember, while these colleges are highly selective, being a competitive applicant often means more than just having solid grades and test scores. These colleges value students who have shown a strong dedication to one or two areas (creating a "spike" in their application), who have leadership experience, who have served their communities, and who have done well academically. The most high-impact extracurriculars are those where you have shown achievement at the state level (Tier 2) or the national/international level (Tier 1). Good luck with your search!