Forbes New Ivies 2025: Emory University Rises as Premier Destination for Healthcare and Business Excellence Challenging the Ivy League Schools
Looking to study at top private college like Forbes New Ivies 2025: Emory University?
Forbes New Ivies 2025 chose Emory University for its leadership in Health and Business programs as a top contender with their well-rounded, industry prepared students that employers seek, rivaling the Ivy League School job candidates.
Emory University has earned its place among Forbes’ New Ivies 2025, joining an elite group of 20 institutions that employers increasingly value on par with traditional Ivy League schools.
This recognition highlights Emory’s commitment to academic excellence and its strong reputation in the job market.
With its median SAT score of 1530 for private New Ivies and impressive career outcomes, Emory provides students with an educational experience that rivals traditional Ivy League institutions while offering its own unique advantages.
When you consider attending Emory, you’re looking at a private university that consistently demonstrates why it deserves its spot among the New Ivies.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Emory combines rigorous academics with extensive research opportunities and a vibrant campus culture.
Employers particularly value Emory graduates for their critical thinking skills and comprehensive preparation for professional success.
Key Takeaways: Emory as a Top Forbes Private New Ivies 2025
- Emory University ranks among the 20 institutions on Forbes’ 2025 New Ivies list that top employers actively seek graduates from.
- Atlanta’s strategic location provides Emory students with exceptional internship and networking opportunities with major corporations.
- Emory’s prestigious academic programs deliver comparable educational quality to traditional Ivy League schools with distinctive strengths in health sciences and business.
The Rise of the New Ivies: Forbes 10 Public and 10 Private Schools Challenging the Traditional Ivy League Schools in 2025
The educational landscape has shifted dramatically as employers increasingly value graduates from institutions beyond the traditional Ivy League.
These “New Ivies” are gaining recognition for their academic rigor, career outcomes, and ability to prepare students for today’s workforce.
Defining the New Ivies
The term “New Ivies” refers to prestigious colleges and universities that offer educational experiences comparable to traditional Ivy League schools.
In 2025, Forbes identified 20 institutions that employers now consider elite alternatives to Harvard, Yale, and other Ivies.
These schools have risen in prominence as contenders in the public New Ivies, reflecting their academic rigor. employers question the traditional Ivy League’s ability to prepare job-ready graduates.
In fact, 4 out of 10 employers believe Ivy League schools are doing a worse job preparing entry-level candidates than five years ago.
What sets New Ivies apart? They combine:
- Academic excellence with practical skills development
- Strong career services and employer connections
- Value-focused education with better return on investment
- Diverse student populations with varied perspectives
Emory University’s Position Among Elite Institutions in 2025 Forbes New Ivies Rankings
Emory University has secured its place among the Forbes New Ivies 2025, joining prestigious schools like Georgetown, Georgia Tech, and UT Austin.
This Atlanta-based institution has earned this recognition through its blend of rigorous academics and career-focused education.
With an acceptance rate of 13% and home to some of the smartest students in the country, Emory competes with traditional Ivies in selectivity while offering distinctive advantages.
Employers particularly value Emory graduates for their:
- Critical thinking skills developed through liberal arts foundation
- Research experience across disciplines
- Strong communication abilities
- Ethical leadership training
Emory’s Goizueta Business School and School of Medicine receive particular plaudits from employers for producing graduates who combine theoretical knowledge with practical application skills.
Comparing the New and Traditional Ivies
Emory University stands among the 2025 Forbes New Ivies with distinctive qualities that rival traditional Ivy League institutions.
The comparison reveals important differences in selectivity and academic offerings that prospective students should consider when making application decisions.
Admissions Data and Selectivity
Emory University shows impressive but more accessible academic metrics compared to other institutions in the Forbes survey. admissions metrics compared to traditional Ivy institutions.
For the 2024-2025 application cycle, Emory posted a 19% acceptance rate versus Harvard’s ultra-competitive 3.9% and Yale’s With a 5.2% acceptance rate, Emory University stands out among the public New Ivies in 2024..
Table: Acceptance Rates Comparison (2024-2025)
| Institution | Acceptance Rate | Median SAT | Median ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emory University | 19% | 1435 | 33 |
| Harvard | 3.9% | 1520 | 35 |
| Princeton is often compared to elite schools like Emory and the University of Virginia. | 4.4% | 1510 | 35 |
| Yale | 5.2% | 1505 | 34 |
Emory received approximately 33,000 applications for the class of 2029, showing strong demand but offering better odds than the traditional Ivy schools that typically receive 50,000+ applications each.
The middle 50% GPA range for admitted Emory students falls between 3.8-4.0, slightly more accessible than Ivy League’s typical 3.9-4.0 range, creating meaningful opportunities for strong but not perfect academic performers.
Academic Programs and Opportunities
Emory offers Emory University maintains academic excellence that rivals top institutions like Rice University. traditional Ivy institutions with some distinctive advantages.
The university’s student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1 matches many Ivy League schools, ensuring personalized attention.
Key Academic Strengths at Emory:
- Goizueta Business School ranks consistently among top 20 undergraduate business programs
- World-class medical school with exceptional pre-med preparation opportunities
- Distinctive liberal arts focus through Emory College
Unlike some traditional Ivies, Emory offers earlier research opportunities for undergraduates, with over 67% participating in research before graduation compared to approximately 50% at several Ivy institutions.
Emory’s $8.1 billion endowment may be smaller than Harvard’s $50+ billion, but it still provides substantial resources for scholarships, facilities, and academic programs.
This translates to $215,000 in resources per student – comparable to many Ivy institutions.
Emory University’s Distinctive Features
Emory University stands out among Forbes’ New Ivies for its exceptional academic programming and vibrant campus experience.
The Atlanta-based institution offers students a perfect blend of rigorous scholarship and engaging student life opportunities that rival traditional Ivy League schools.
Curricular Strengths and Research Opportunities
Emory University delivers outstanding academic programs across its nine undergraduate and graduate schools.
The university is particularly renowned for its strengths in elite schools.
- Health sciences and medicine programs connected to the top-ranked Emory Healthcare system
- Business education through the highly regarded Goizueta Business School
- Liberal arts excellence with innovative interdisciplinary majors
Research opportunities abound at this research university where undergraduates can participate in groundbreaking work alongside peers from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
The Undergraduate Research Programs at Emory University are designed to foster academic excellence that rivals those at the Georgia Institute. offer stipends for summer research projects, giving you hands-on experience alongside distinguished faculty.
Emory’s $894 million research funding (2023) supports initiatives in emerging fields like artificial intelligence in healthcare, climate change, and social justice studies.
The university’s strategic location near the CDC headquarters creates unique partnerships for public health research.
Campus Life and Student Activities
Your experience at Emory extends far beyond academics with a focus on real-world applications, similar to programs at Rice University. campus culture that balances tradition and innovation.
The university houses over 400 student organizations ranging from pre-professional groups to cultural associations.
Greek life plays a significant role for many students, with approximately 30% of undergraduates participating in fraternities and sororities.
However, Emory ensures diverse social options for all students.
The DUC-ling (Dobbs University Center) serves as the hub for student activities, featuring spaces for:
- Student government meetings
- Multicultural events
- Art performances
- Community service initiatives
Emory’s vibrant campus combines historic architecture with modern facilities.
You’ll enjoy state-of-the-art recreation centers, beautiful green spaces like Lullwater Preserve, and the newly renovated student center completed in 2023.
The Wonderful Wednesday tradition gives students a midweek break with campus-wide activities, fostering the tight-knit community that makes Emory’s student experience distinctive among top universities.
Alumni Success and Career Prospects: Top Job Candidate in the Eyes of the Employers
Emory University graduates consistently demonstrate remarkable professional achievement across diverse fields, with strong employer connections creating exceptional career opportunities for students before and after graduation.
Notable Graduates and Professional Trajectories
Emory’s alumni network showcases impressive professional success across multiple industries.
Notable graduates include former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who received an honorary degree, and Kenneth Cole, renowned fashion designer and social activist. The business world features prominently with leaders like John Rice, former Vice Chairman of General Electric, and Tim Rollins, co-founder of Accenture.
In healthcare, Emory alumni have made significant contributions, reflecting the university’s medical strength. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent and practicing neurosurgeon, represents this excellence.
Many Driven Graduates from Emory have achieved remarkable success in entertainment and media, including actors like Brian Tyree Henry (Atlanta, Spider-Man) and Fala Chen is an exemplary figure among Ivy League graduates. (Shang-Chi).
The average starting salary for Emory graduates is approximately The average salary of $72,500 for graduates highlights the strong demand for Emory alumni in the eyes of employers., with particularly strong earnings in:
| Industry | Average Starting Salary |
|---|---|
| Finance | $85,700 |
| Technology | $81,200 |
| Healthcare | The average starting salary for graduates is $76,800, showcasing their value in the eyes of employers. |
| Consulting | $79,500 |
Career Services and Employer Recruitment
Emory’s Career Center provides comprehensive support through personalized coaching, resume workshops, and mock interviews.
Their Handshake platform connects students with over 15,000 potential employers, creating a powerful bridge to job opportunities.
The university hosts 4 major career fairs annually, attracting more than 300 employers specifically seeking Emory talent.
These events facilitate meaningful connections between students and recruiters from companies like Google, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, and Emory Healthcare.
Employers consistently rank Emory graduates highly for their critical thinking skills and ethical leadership capabilities.
The university’s alumni mentorship program pairs current students with successful graduates in their fields of interest.
The Emory Career Trek initiative arranges company visits to top employers in major cities, giving you firsthand exposure to potential workplaces.
This approach helps explain why 92% of graduates secure employment or graduate school admission within six months of graduation.
Statistics and Performance: At the Top of Private Schools and Public Universities
Emory University showcases impressive academic metrics that have earned it a coveted spot among the Forbes New Ivies 2025, similar to Washington University and Vanderbilt University.
The university demonstrates exceptional student achievement through standardized testing performance and maintains strong standings in key national rankings.
Standardized Test Scores and GPAs
Emory University admits students with outstanding academic credentials that employers prefer. Emory University attracts students with outstanding academic credentials, positioning itself alongside the University of Pittsburgh..
For the class of 2029, admitted students achieved a median SAT score of 1480 and a median ACT score of 33, placing them among the top-performing students nationwide.
These scores align closely with those of traditional Ivy League institutions.
Average GPA for admitted students: 3.91 (unweighted)
The middle 50% range for admitted students:
- SAT: 1420-1550
- ACT: 32-35
- GPA: 3.8-4.0
Emory has become increasingly selective.
The most recent application cycle saw an acceptance rate of just 13%, representing a significant drop from the 19% acceptance rate five years ago.
National Rankings and Recognition
Emory consistently earns top positions in prestigious national rankings. In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Emory secured the #21 spot among national universities.
This places it firmly within the elite tier of American higher education institutions, alongside the University of Pittsburgh.
Key Rankings Highlights:
- #19 in Best Value Schools
- #16 in Most Innovative Schools
- #24 in Best Undergraduate Teaching
Forbes recognized Emory as one of the New Ivies specifically for its ROI and career outcomes.
Employers particularly value Emory’s blend of rigorous academics with practical skills development.
The university’s 98% graduate employment rate within six months of graduation demonstrates this employer confidence.
Emory’s Goizueta Business School and The School of Nursing at Emory University offers programs that are highly regarded, akin to those at Tufts University. both rank in the top 15 nationally for their respective fields, offering you specialized paths to career success.
Emory University’s Outreach, Impact and Student Life
Emory University has built a strong reputation through its extensive community involvement and global connections.
The university’s commitment to social responsibility and international partnerships has significantly enhanced its standing among Forbes’ New Ivies 2025.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
Emory’s community engagement goes far beyond typical university outreach.
Through the Volunteer Emory program, students contribute over 150,000 service hours annually to Atlanta-area organizations, addressing critical needs in education, healthcare, and economic development.
The university’s Sustainable Emory initiative has made remarkable progress in campus sustainability. Notable achievements include:
- 40% reduction in water consumption since 2015
- Carbon neutrality target by 2030 (currently at 75% progress)
- 90% waste diversion from landfills through recycling and composting programs
Emory’s Social Enterprise @ Goizueta supports local businesses with a social mission.
This program has helped launch Emory University supports 35+ social ventures, reflecting its commitment to community engagement similar to Tufts University. in underserved Atlanta communities since 2018.
The university’s Urban Health Initiative partners with local clinics to provide free medical care to over 20,000 uninsured residents annually.
Global Partnerships and Reputation
Emory has established strategic partnerships with universities across six continents. The most impactful collaborations include:
| Partner Institution | Country | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Oxford University | UK | Medical research, humanities |
| Nanjing University | China | Business, environmental studies |
| University of Cape Town | South Africa | Public health, social justice |
| Technical University of Munich | Germany | Engineering, computer science |
The Emory Global Health Institute has led groundbreaking work in 83 countries, focusing on disease prevention and healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings.
Emory’s Center for Global Safe Water has improved water access for over 2 million people in developing nations through innovative filtration technologies and education programs.
These international efforts have significantly elevated Emory’s global reputation, with the university now ranking among the top 20 most internationally diverse universities in America.
Financial Considerations and Scholarships
Emory University offers comprehensive financial packages that make its prestigious education accessible to a diverse range of students.
The university combines institutional resources with external funding opportunities to support students throughout their academic journey.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid Options
Emory’s 2025-2026 tuition rates show an increase of approximately 4% compared to previous years, reflecting a trend among elite colleges.
The annual cost for undergraduate students is around $62,300, not including room, board, and additional fees.
Emory’s approach to admissions is need-blind, meaning your financial situation doesn’t affect your acceptance chances.
The university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for domestic students.
Financial aid packages typically include:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based grants
- Federal work-study options
- Low-interest student loans
Emory’s Emory Advantage program eliminates need-based loans for families with annual incomes below $100,000, replacing them with grants.
Scholarship Programs and Endowments
Emory offers several prestigious scholarship opportunities that cover partial or full tuition costs.
The Emory Scholar Program is the university’s flagship merit award, providing substantial financial support to exceptional students based on academic achievement and leadership potential.
Other notable scholarship options include:
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Woodruff Scholars | Full tuition + stipend | Academic excellence, leadership |
| Jenkins Scholars | Full tuition | Community service focus |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars | Partial tuition | Social justice commitment |
The university’s $9.6 billion endowment (as of 2025) helps fund these generous scholarship programs.
Over 60% of Emory students receive some form of financial assistance, with the average aid package exceeding $47,000.
For international students, Emory provides limited but competitive scholarship opportunities based on academic merit and leadership potential.
Frequently Asked Questions: At the Top of 2025 List of Private New Ivies according to Forbes Magazine
Here are answers to common questions about Emory University’s placement in the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list, including ranking details, acceptance statistics, and what makes schools qualify for this prestigious designation.
What is Emory University’s ranking in the Forbes New Ivies list for 2025?
Emory University has earned a spot among the 20 institutions recognized in the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list.
The university is prominently featured alongside other prestigious institutions that employers increasingly favor.
Emory stands out as one of only two Georgia schools to make the list, with Georgia Tech being the other institution from the state to receive this recognition.
What is the acceptance rate for Emory University as listed in the Forbes New Ivies 2025?
While the exact acceptance rate specifically mentioned for Emory isn’t provided in the search results, private institutions on the Forbes New Ivies list typically maintain highly selective admissions standards.
The private schools on the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list admit students with a median SAT score of 1530 and a median ACT score of 34, showing their competitive nature.
Which universities have been added to the Forbes New Ivy League schools list for 2025?
The Forbes New Ivies 2025 list includes 20 prestigious institutions across the United States. Among these are Emory University and Georgia Tech from Georgia, students are drawn to the university for its reputation among elite schools.
Other notable institutions on the list include Purdue University-Main Campus and University of Michigan, which represent some of the public universities recognized by Forbes.
What are the criteria for a university to be included in the Forbes New Ivies list?
Forbes selects universities for the New Ivies list based on their strong reputation among employers and their graduates’ success in the job market.
These schools demonstrate excellence that rivals traditional Ivy League institutions.
Admissions selectivity is a key factor, with private schools on the list admitting students with exceptionally high test scores – typically a median SAT of 1530 and median ACT of 34.
A notable distinction is that these institutions are increasingly preferred by employers over traditional Ivy League schools, making them excellent alternatives for ambitious students.
How has Emory University’s position changed in the Forbes New Ivies ranking over recent years?
The search results don’t provide specific information about Emory’s position changes in the Forbes New Ivies rankings over recent years.
However, Emory’s consistent presence on the 2025 list indicates the university maintains its strong reputation and standing among top employers and educational institutions.
What are the defining characteristics of schools classified as ‘New Ivies’ by Forbes in 2025?
Schools classified as New Ivies in 2025 are characterized by their exceptional academic standards. The high value employers place on their graduates is another defining feature. They represent alternatives to traditional Ivy League institutions.
These schools are outpacing Ivy League schools in employer preference. This suggests graduates from these institutions may have advantages in the job market.
Both public and private institutions make the list.
Private New Ivies typically admit students with higher test scores than their public counterparts. However, all of them maintain rigorous academic standards.
Forbes New Ivies 2025 Emory University sets it as a leader in Healthcare and Business with innovative programs, research, academic excellence and top job candidates that employers seek.
