The Ivy League is a term used to define a group of prestigious universities in the United States including Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University. While this term has become synonymous with academic excellence, there are several alternative phrases that can be used to describe these elite institutions. Some possible synonyms include the Ancient Eight, the Eight Schools, the East Coast Ivy League, and the Ivy Group. Regardless of what they are called, these universities remain highly respected and sought after by students around the world for their rigorous academic programs and strong alumni networks.