U.S. Institute of technology overtakes Harvard University as most desired college for 2025 applicants 

This according to CNBC, marks the end of Harvard’s long-standing position as the most desirable institution; following a period of controversy involving antisemitism on campus and the resignation of Harvard President Claudine Gay amidst plagiarism allegations.

Antisemitism is discrimination, prejudice, or hatred toward individuals or groups based on their Jewish identity or religion.

The data, released by The Princeton Review, reflects a significant change in the preferences of college-bound students.

The survey, which polled over 9,300 applicants from January 17th to February 24th, 2025, revealed that MIT now holds the highest ranking.

Editor-in-chief of The Princeton Review, Robert Frank, noted that despite the reshuffling, the universities at the top of the list are “exceptional” and remain highly competitive.

Reports inform that the Princeton Review’s 2025 College Hopes and Worries Survey also highlighted that cost continues to be a significant issue for prospective students.

According to the survey, 95% of families indicated that financial aid would be necessary to afford a college education, with 77% stating it was “extremely” or “very” necessary.

For many applicants, the amount of financial assistance offered—whether through grants, scholarships, or student loans—often influences their decision on which school to attend.

Reports cite that MIT, despite its high tuition and fees—amounting to over $85,000 for the current academic year—offers financial aid to qualifying students.

According to the school, 87% of the Class of 2024 graduated debt-free. This financial support is meant to play a key role in attracting top students from diverse backgrounds.

Co-founder of the National Society of High School Scholars, James Lewis, pointed out that top colleges, including MIT, are increasingly seeking students from various backgrounds.

“If they can go after those institutions, don’t self-select out,” he advised students, encouraging them not to rule out schools based on perceived cost or accessibility.

Lewis emphasized that scholarships and other forms of assistance are often available to those who meet the necessary academic and financial requirements.

Another factor influencing college choice is the return on investment, particularly concerning future job opportunities. As college costs rise, many students are placing greater emphasis on career prospects after graduation.

Rim explained, “Because it’s getting harder to find a job, students are more focused on what they are going to do after college.”  

Rim explained, “Because it’s getting harder to find a job, students are more focused on what they are going to do after college.”  

According to The Princeton Review, most students see earning a college degree as a means to secure a better job and income, rather than simply gaining exposure to new ideas, places, and people.

The results of this survey show a changing landscape in higher education, where the cost of attendance, availability of financial aid, and post-graduation career opportunities are increasingly driving decisions for prospective students.

As MIT moves into the top spot, it shows the growing trend of students prioritizing financial aid packages and future earning potential when selecting a school.

With financial concerns continuing to dominate the conversation around college admissions, the future of higher education may depend heavily on how universities adapt to these shifting financial priorities.