Heya! Out of curiosity...which college is generally considered the 'hardest' in terms of acceptance rates, academic rigour etc? Is there a global consensus or does it boil down to the specifics?
This is indeed an interesting question, but the answer might depend on how you define "hardest." I'll try to look at it from different angles.
If we're talking strictly in terms of acceptance rates, some of the most selective colleges in the U.S. currently are Stanford University, Harvard University, and Columbia University. Each of these institutions typically have acceptance rates below 5%, making them extremely competitive.
In terms of academic rigor, that can be a bit more subjective since it often depends on the specific program or department within a college. However, many students and educators often agree that institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and Princeton University are particularly rigorous with high standards for their students.
Looking at a global scale, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge in the UK are perceived to be immensely selective and rigorous. The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) in Switzerland is also referred to as a challenging institution, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
In the end, the "hardest" college to get into or the most academically strenuous can vary greatly based on a multitude of factors. It is essential to find a college that fits your personal and academic interests, capabilities, and aspirations, rather than focusing solely on selectivity or prestige. Keep in mind that all these institutions have high expectations for their students but also offer extensive resources and support to help students meet those expectations.
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