Most prestigious university in the United States?

I know Ivy League schools are pretty well-known, but is there one university that stands out as the most prestigious in the U.S.? I'm weighing my options and would love to hear about what makes it special or unique.

In the US, prestige often comes down to selectivity, reputation, and the academic excellence of a university. Harvard University is commonly considered one of the most prestigious universities, not only in the US but also globally. It's particularly renowned for its strong humanities programs, and its business and law schools are top-ranked.

Harvard's reputation comes from its long history of academic excellence, being the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States (established in 1636). Its alumni include numerous notable personalities, from Nobel laureates to former presidents, which further contributes to its prestige.

Another distinctive element of Harvard is its wealth, including its endowment fund which is one of the largest in the world. This wealth allows Harvard to invest a lot of resources into research and scholarships, aiding in its reputation for academic excellence.

But keep in mind that while prestige is an important factor, it's not the sole criteria for considering a university. Factors like your intended major, the kind of campus environment you prefer, extracurricular opportunities, financial accessibility and potential career pathways should also play a significant role in your decision. After all, your aim should be to find a college that best caters to your interests and aspirations, rather than just aiming for prestige.