40. University of Nebraska-Lincoln – $2.8 Billion
With a $2.8 billion endowment, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is one of the wealthiest public universities in the Midwest. Founded in 1869, UNL is known for its excellence in agriculture, engineering, and business. The university has played a major role in agricultural innovation, with its research programs driving advancements in food production and sustainability. Its financial strength comes from state funding, research grants, and generous alumni donations, including contributions from billionaire investor Walter Scott Jr.
UNL’s endowment supports scholarships, research initiatives, and athletic programs, particularly its storied Cornhuskers football team, ensuring the university continues to thrive academically and athletically.
39. University of Kansas – $2.9 Billion
With a $2.9 billion endowment, the University of Kansas (KU) stands as one of the wealthiest public universities in the Midwest. Founded in 1865, KU is renowned for its strong programs in medicine, law, and engineering. The university’s KU Medical Center and Cancer Center receive significant research funding, contributing to advancements in healthcare and biotechnology. KU’s financial strength is fueled by state funding, federal research grants, and major alumni contributions, including gifts from the Dole and Anschutz families.
The endowment supports scholarships, cutting-edge research, and athletic programs, particularly its storied Jayhawks basketball team, ensuring that KU continues to excel academically and athletically.
38. University of Kentucky – $3.0 Billion
With a $3.0 billion endowment, the University of Kentucky (UK) is one of the wealthiest public universities in the South. Founded in 1865, UK is a leader in medical research, agriculture, and engineering. Its Albert B. Chandler Hospital and Markey Cancer Center receive significant funding for cutting-edge medical advancements. The university’s financial strength is bolstered by state funding, federal research grants, and major alumni donations, including contributions from Joe Craft and the Gatton family.
UK’s endowment supports scholarships, world-class research facilities, and athletics, particularly its powerhouse basketball program. With strong academic and athletic traditions, UK continues to make a lasting impact in education and innovation.
37. University of Missouri – $3.1 Billion
The University of Missouri (Mizzou), with a $3.1 billion endowment, is one of the wealthiest public universities in the Midwest. Founded in 1839, Mizzou is home to the nation’s first journalism school, the highly regarded Missouri School of Journalism, which has trained Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists. The university’s financial strength comes from state funding, research grants, and major alumni contributions, including gifts from media mogul Donald W. Reynolds. Its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and medicine attract top students and researchers.
The endowment funds scholarships, campus improvements, and groundbreaking research, ensuring that Mizzou remains a leader in education, innovation, and public service.
36. University of Iowa – $3.2 Billion
With a $3.2 billion endowment, the University of Iowa (UI) is one of the nation’s wealthiest public universities, known for its excellence in healthcare, writing, and research. Founded in 1847, UI is home to the world-renowned Iowa Writers’ Workshop, which has produced Pulitzer Prize winners and literary icons. The university’s medical school and hospital system receive substantial funding, driving advancements in healthcare and biomedical research. UI’s financial success comes from state funding, research grants, and generous alumni contributions.
This includes gifts from media mogul John Pappajohn. Its wealth supports scholarships, state-of-the-art research facilities, and innovation, ensuring continued academic and healthcare leadership.
35. University of Colorado Boulder – $3.3 Billion
The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder), with a $3.3 billion endowment, is a leading public research university known for its strengths in aerospace engineering, environmental science, and quantum physics. Founded in 1876, CU Boulder has played a major role in space exploration, partnering with NASA on numerous missions. The university’s financial success comes from state funding, federal research grants, and major alumni contributions, including donations from the Anschutz Foundation.
CU Boulder’s wealth funds scholarships, world-class research facilities, and sustainability initiatives. Its strong innovation ecosystem and entrepreneurial spirit ensure it remains a key player in science, technology, and higher education.
34. University of Arizona – $3.4 Billion
The University of Arizona, with a $3.4 billion endowment, is a leading public research institution known for its strengths in space sciences, engineering, and medicine. Founded in 1885, the university has been at the forefront of NASA missions, with its Lunar and Planetary Laboratory playing a key role in space exploration. The financial success of UA is driven by research grants, state funding, and major alumni donations, including contributions from tech entrepreneur Thomas R. Brown.
The university’s medical and optical sciences programs receive substantial funding, ensuring continued innovation. UA’s endowment supports scholarships, cutting-edge research, and campus growth, maintaining its position as a top-tier research institution.
33. Boston College – $3.5 Billion
Boston College (BC), with a $3.5 billion endowment, is one of the wealthiest Jesuit institutions in the U.S. Founded in 1863, BC is known for its strong liberal arts education, elite business school (Carroll School of Management), and commitment to service and ethics. Its financial success is fueled by smart investments and major alumni donations, including contributions from billionaire Peter Lynch. BC’s endowment supports scholarships, faculty research, and campus expansion, including state-of-the-art facilities for science and technology.
With a strong reputation in law, finance, and public policy, Boston College continues to attract top students while maintaining its deep-rooted Jesuit traditions and academic excellence.
32. University of Florida – $3.6 Billion
With a $3.6 billion endowment, the University of Florida (UF) is one of the most financially robust public universities in the U.S. Founded in 1853, UF has built a reputation for excellence in business, law, engineering, and agriculture. Its research in biotechnology and medicine has attracted significant funding, including major contributions from the Dr. Herbert Wertheim family. UF’s financial strength is further bolstered by its commercialization of innovations like Gatorade, which continues to generate revenue.
The endowment supports scholarships, world-class faculty, and cutting-edge research initiatives. As a top-ranked public university, UF continues to expand its influence in academia, research, and entrepreneurship.
31. University of Washington – $3.7 Billion
The University of Washington (UW), with a $3.7 billion endowment, is one of the top public research universities in the U.S. and a global leader in technology, medicine, and environmental sciences. Founded in 1861, UW benefits from strong ties to Seattle’s tech industry, with alumni including Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. The university receives substantial funding from major donors like the Gates Foundation and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Its world-renowned medical school and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) drive groundbreaking research in public health. UW’s financial strength supports scholarships, cutting-edge research, and top-tier faculty, ensuring it remains a leader in innovation and academic excellence.
30. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – $3.8 Billion
With a $3.8 billion endowment, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is a powerhouse in engineering, computer science, and business. Founded in 1867, UIUC has played a crucial role in technological advancements, including the development of the first graphical web browser. The university’s financial strength comes from state funding, research grants, and major alumni contributions, including donations from billionaire Thomas Siebel. Its highly ranked Grainger College of Engineering and Gies College of Business attract top students and faculty worldwide.
UIUC’s wealth funds scholarships, state-of-the-art research facilities, and innovation initiatives, ensuring that it remains a leader in education, technology, and entrepreneurship.
29. University of Wisconsin-Madison – $3.9 Billion
The University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a $3.9 billion endowment, is one of the top public research universities in the U.S. Founded in 1848, UW-Madison is known for its excellence in engineering, business, and life sciences. The university’s financial success is driven by state funding, strategic investments, and major alumni donations, including contributions from billionaire John Morgridge, former CEO of Cisco Systems. Its renowned Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) generates revenue through patents and research commercialization, further strengthening its financial base.
UW-Madison’s wealth supports world-class research, scholarships, and top-tier faculty, ensuring its continued status as a leader in innovation and academic excellence.
28. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – $4.1 Billion
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), with a $4.1 billion endowment, is one of the nation's top public universities, known for its excellence in business, law, medicine, and journalism. Founded in 1789 as the first public university to open its doors, UNC has built a legacy of academic innovation and research. Its financial strength comes from state funding, strategic investments, and major alumni donations, including contributions from Michael Jordan and pharmaceutical mogul Fred Eshelman.
The UNC School of Medicine and Kenan-Flagler Business School are highly regarded worldwide. Its endowment supports scholarships, research, and campus enhancements, ensuring Carolina remains a leader in higher education.
27. Ohio State University – $4.2 Billion
Ohio State University (OSU), with a $4.2 billion endowment, is one of the wealthiest and most influential public universities in the U.S. Founded in 1870, OSU has built a reputation for excellence in business, engineering, and healthcare, with its Wexner Medical Center receiving substantial research funding. The university’s financial strength is fueled by strong state support, successful investments, and major alumni donations, including a $100 million gift from billionaire Les Wexner, founder of L Brands.
OSU’s endowment supports groundbreaking research, student scholarships, and state-of-the-art athletic facilities, including its powerhouse football program. With a massive global alumni network, Ohio State continues to thrive as a top-tier institution.
26. University of Pittsburgh – $4.3 Billion
The University of Pittsburgh (Pitt), with a $4.3 billion endowment, is a leading public research institution known for its excellence in medicine, engineering, and public health. Founded in 1787, Pitt has played a crucial role in medical advancements, particularly through its partnership with UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), a world-renowned healthcare network. Major alumni donations and strong investment strategies have bolstered its financial strength, with support from figures like billionaire investor Bill Dietrich.
Pitt’s medical school has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research, including the development of the polio vaccine. Its endowment funds scholarships, cutting-edge research, and campus expansion, ensuring continued innovation and accessibility for students.
25. University of Minnesota – $4.5 Billion
With a $4.5 billion endowment, the University of Minnesota is one of the wealthiest public universities in the U.S. Founded in 1851, it has built a strong reputation in medicine, engineering, and business. The university’s financial success is driven by state funding, research grants, and major alumni donations, including contributions from Medtronic founder Earl Bakken and Best Buy CEO Richard Schulze. Its renowned medical school and research centers receive substantial federal grants, making it a leader in health sciences and biotechnology.
The endowment supports scholarships, cutting-edge research, and campus improvements, ensuring the university remains a top-tier institution for students and faculty worldwide.
24. New York University (NYU) – $5.3 Billion
New York University (NYU), with a $5.3 billion endowment, is a global academic powerhouse, particularly known for its arts, business, and law programs. Founded in 1831, NYU’s prime location in Manhattan has helped it build strong ties to Wall Street, Broadway, and the tech industry. The Stern School of Business and Tisch School of the Arts have produced industry leaders like Lady Gaga, Martin Scorsese, and Jack Dorsey. NYU’s endowment benefits from major donations.
This includes contributions from billionaires like Hank Greenberg and alumni who value its global campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. Its financial strength fuels research, scholarships, and expansion, making it one of the world’s most influential universities.
23. Dartmouth College – $5.9 Billion
Dartmouth College, with a $5.9 billion endowment, is the smallest Ivy League school but one of the wealthiest per student. Founded in 1769, Dartmouth is known for its strong liberal arts education, elite business program (Tuck School of Business), and tight-knit community. The college’s financial strength comes from high-yield investments and generous alumni contributions, including major gifts from business leaders like Leon Black and Stephen Mandel. Its wealth supports extensive financial aid, cutting-edge research, and global study programs.
Dartmouth’s picturesque campus, commitment to undergraduate teaching, and strong alumni network ensure that it remains a leader in higher education and a top choice for ambitious students.
22. University of Southern California – $6.1 Billion
The University of Southern California (USC) boasts a $6.1 billion endowment, making it one of the wealthiest private universities in the country. Founded in 1880, USC has grown into a powerhouse in business, film, and technology, thanks to its prime location in Los Angeles and strong ties to Hollywood and Silicon Valley. The Marshall School of Business and the School of Cinematic Arts, backed by major donors like George Lucas, attract top talent from around the world.
Generous alumni, including tech moguls and entertainment executives, have significantly boosted USC’s financial strength. The university’s wealth funds scholarships, state-of-the-art research facilities, and innovation hubs, ensuring its continued influence in multiple industries.
21. Johns Hopkins University – $6.7 Billion
With a $6.7 billion endowment, Johns Hopkins University is a global leader in medical research, public health, and engineering. Founded in 1876 with a historic $7 million gift from its namesake philanthropist, the university has maintained a strong financial foundation through generous donations and federal research grants. Its world-renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital and Bloomberg School of Public Health receive billions in funding, with major contributions from billionaire Michael Bloomberg, who has donated over $3.5 billion.
Hopkins’ cutting-edge research in infectious diseases, space exploration, and artificial intelligence keeps it at the forefront of innovation. Its wealth supports top-tier faculty, financial aid, and groundbreaking discoveries that shape the world.
20. University of Chicago – $8.5 Billion
The University of Chicago, with an $8.5 billion endowment, is a powerhouse in economics, law, and research. Founded in 1890 with funding from John D. Rockefeller, the university has remained a leader in intellectual inquiry and academic rigor. Its renowned Booth School of Business and Law School attract top scholars, while its economics department has produced multiple Nobel laureates, including Milton Friedman. Major donors like Ken Griffin and the Pritzker family have significantly boosted its financial strength.
UChicago’s endowment funds groundbreaking research, generous financial aid, and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring its place as one of the most influential institutions in higher education and policy-making.
19. Cornell University – $9.4 Billion
Cornell University, with a $9.4 billion endowment, is a unique Ivy League institution that blends private and public elements. Founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White, the university excels in diverse fields, from engineering and business to agriculture and hotel management. Cornell’s financial strength comes from strategic investments, state funding for its land-grant colleges, and generous alumni donations from figures like Chuck Feeney, who contributed over $1 billion.
The university’s world-class research programs, particularly in veterinary medicine and technology, attract top-tier faculty and students. Cornell’s wealth supports financial aid, global outreach, and cutting-edge facilities, ensuring its continued leadership in higher education.
18. University of Virginia – $9.7 Billion
With a $9.7 billion endowment, the University of Virginia (UVA) stands as one of the wealthiest public universities in the U.S. Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, UVA is known for its historic campus, rigorous academics, and top-ranked law, business, and medical programs. The university's financial strength is bolstered by smart investments, state funding, and generous alumni contributions, including major donations from billionaires like Paul Tudor Jones and John Paul Jones.
UVA’s endowment funds scholarships, world-class research, and campus expansion, ensuring affordability for students while maintaining its status as a leader in higher education. Its Jeffersonian legacy continues to attract top-tier students and faculty worldwide.
17. Vanderbilt University – $10.2 Billion
Vanderbilt University, with a $10.2 billion endowment, is a prestigious institution known for its excellence in medicine, law, and business. Founded in 1873 with a $1 million donation from railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt, the university has since expanded into a powerhouse of research and innovation. The Vanderbilt University Medical Center, one of the nation’s top healthcare institutions, receives significant funding for groundbreaking research. The university’s financial strength has been bolstered by generous alumni donations, including contributions from the Frist family (founders of HCA Healthcare).
Vanderbilt uses its wealth to fund top-tier faculty, extensive financial aid, and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring its continued reputation for academic excellence.
16. Emory University – $11.1 Billion
Emory University, with an impressive $11.1 billion endowment, is a leader in healthcare, business, and liberal arts education. Founded in 1836, this Atlanta-based institution has strong ties to the Coca-Cola Company, which has played a major role in its financial success through significant alumni donations and investments. The university’s renowned Emory School of Medicine and Rollins School of Public Health receive substantial research funding, particularly in infectious diseases and cancer research.
Notable alumni include former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and business magnate John C. Portman. Emory’s wealth supports extensive financial aid programs, cutting-edge medical advancements, and a commitment to global health and social impact.
15. Washington University in St. Louis – $13.1 Billion
With a $13.1 billion endowment, Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) stands as one of the wealthiest and most prestigious private universities in the U.S. Founded in 1853, WashU is renowned for its top-ranked medical school, business programs, and research initiatives. Its financial strength comes from smart investment strategies and generous donations from major benefactors like the Olin and Sam Fox families. The university’s world-class medical center receives substantial funding for groundbreaking research in cancer and neuroscience.
WashU’s wealth allows it to offer generous financial aid, fund cutting-edge facilities, and support its mission of academic excellence, attracting top-tier students and faculty from around the world.
14. Duke University – $13.2 Billion
Duke University, with a $13.2 billion endowment, is a powerhouse in academics, research, and athletics. Founded in 1838 and later renamed after tobacco magnate James Buchanan Duke, whose family’s philanthropy significantly boosted its wealth, the university has become a leader in business, law, and medicine. The Duke Endowment, established in 1924, continues to be a major financial pillar, alongside generous alumni donations from figures like Melinda French Gates and David Rubenstein.
Home to the renowned Fuqua School of Business and Duke Medical Center, the university invests heavily in research, scholarships, and global outreach. Its financial strength ensures continued innovation and excellence in education and healthcare.
13. Columbia University – $13.6 Billion
With a $13.6 billion endowment, Columbia University is one of the richest Ivy League institutions, renowned for its influence in journalism, business, and medicine. Founded in 1754 as King’s College, Columbia has a long history of producing world leaders, including U.S. presidents like Barack Obama and Franklin D. Roosevelt. The university's financial strength comes from its prime New York City real estate, lucrative research grants, and major alumni donations, including gifts from Henry Kravis and Lee Bollinger.
Columbia’s endowment fuels its world-class programs at the Columbia Business School, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism school, and cutting-edge medical research, while also funding scholarships and expanding its global academic reach.
12. Northwestern University – $13.6 Billion
Northwestern University boasts a $13.6 billion endowment, a testament to its academic excellence and strong alumni support. Founded in 1851, the Evanston, Illinois-based university is home to prestigious programs like the Kellogg School of Management, the Medill School of Journalism, and Feinberg School of Medicine. Northwestern’s financial success is fueled by strategic investments and major donations from alumni like Patrick Ryan and the Pritzker family. The university has produced Pulitzer Prize winners, Fortune 500 CEOs, and Hollywood stars like Stephen Colbert.
Its wealth supports cutting-edge medical research, top-tier faculty, and extensive financial aid, ensuring Northwestern remains a leader in higher education and innovation.
11. University of Notre Dame – $16.6 Billion
With a $16.6 billion endowment, the University of Notre Dame stands as one of the wealthiest private universities in the U.S. Founded in 1842, Notre Dame is renowned for its rigorous academics, Catholic traditions, and legendary Fighting Irish football program. The university’s financial strength has been bolstered by generous alumni contributions, including major donations from business leaders like Richard Corbett and Kenneth Ricci. Its Mendoza College of Business and strong research programs in engineering and global affairs attract top students worldwide.
The endowment fuels scholarships, campus expansion, and cutting-edge research while preserving the university’s commitment to faith-based education and service-driven leadership.
10. University of California – $17.6 Billion
The University of California system, with a $17.6 billion endowment, is a powerhouse of public education, research, and innovation. Spanning 10 campuses, including Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego, the system has fueled scientific breakthroughs, Nobel Prize-winning research, and Silicon Valley’s tech boom. UC’s wealth comes from state funding, research grants, and generous donations from alumni like Larry Fink and Janet Napolitano. Berkeley and UCLA consistently rank among the world’s best universities, excelling in engineering, medicine, and law.
The system's financial strength supports cutting-edge research, sustainability initiatives, and extensive financial aid programs, ensuring that top-tier education remains accessible to students from all backgrounds.
9. University of Michigan – $17.8 Billion
With a $17.8 billion endowment, the University of Michigan stands as one of the wealthiest public universities in the nation. Founded in 1817, Michigan has built a reputation for excellence in medicine, engineering, business, and law. The Ross School of Business, named after billionaire donor Stephen Ross, and the Michigan Medicine healthcare system contribute significantly to its financial strength. Notable alumni include Google co-founder Larry Page, President Gerald Ford, and Madonna.
The university's smart investment strategies and generous alumni donations fuel scholarships, research, and cutting-edge facilities. With its financial muscle, Michigan continues to expand its global impact while maintaining affordability for students through robust financial aid programs.
8. Texas A&M University System – $19.2 Billion
The Texas A&M University System commands an impressive $19.2 billion endowment, largely thanks to its share of the state’s lucrative Permanent University Fund (PUF), which also benefits the University of Texas System. Established in 1876, Texas A&M is renowned for its engineering, agricultural sciences, and military programs, with a deep-rooted tradition of leadership and service. Its alumni network includes CEOs, astronauts, and military generals, with major donors like energy tycoon Harold Adams contributing to its financial success.
The system’s wealth allows it to fund cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and substantial financial aid, ensuring that Texas A&M remains a powerhouse in higher education and innovation.
7. University of Pennsylvania – $20.9 Billion
The University of Pennsylvania, with a $20.9 billion endowment, owes much of its financial success to its prestigious Wharton School of Business and a powerhouse alumni network. Founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, Penn has a long history of blending innovation with practical education. It has produced notable figures like Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Warren Buffett (who attended but didn’t graduate). Penn’s wealth has been bolstered by significant donations from alumni such as Ronald Perelman and Marc Rowan.
With strong investments and a commitment to research, Penn funds groundbreaking medical advancements, top-tier financial aid, and cutting-edge facilities, ensuring its status as a global academic leader.
6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – $23.4 Billion
MIT’s $23.4 billion endowment fuels its reputation as a global leader in science, engineering, and innovation. Founded in 1861, the university has revolutionized fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology. Its alumni and faculty include Nobel laureates, astronauts, and tech pioneers such as Kofi Annan, Buzz Aldrin, and the founders of Dropbox and Intel. MIT’s endowment thrives through strategic investments and massive donations from industry leaders like Patrick McGovern and David Koch.
With cutting-edge research centers and a commitment to entrepreneurship, MIT continuously pushes the boundaries of innovation. Its financial strength allows for extensive research funding, tuition-free policies for low-income students, and unparalleled global influence.
5. Princeton University – $34.0 Billion
Princeton University’s $34.0 billion endowment is a testament to its financial savvy and generous alumni network. Founded in 1746, this Ivy League institution is known for its excellence in the humanities, sciences, and public policy. Its elite Woodrow Wilson School (now the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs) has educated leaders like Supreme Court justices and U.S. presidents, including James Madison. Princeton’s investment strategy, pioneered by former endowment head David Swensen, has yielded consistently high returns.
Major donors like Jeff Bezos and Meg Whitman have bolstered its wealth. With a commitment to affordability, Princeton offers one of the most generous financial aid programs, ensuring top students can attend debt-free.
4. Stanford University – $36.5 Billion
With a massive $36.5 billion endowment, Stanford University is not just one of the wealthiest institutions—it’s a breeding ground for Silicon Valley’s greatest minds. Founded in 1885 by Leland and Jane Stanford, the university quickly rose to global prominence, particularly in technology, business, and medicine. Its close ties to venture capital and tech giants like Google, Apple, and Tesla have fueled its financial success, with alumni such as Elon Musk, Sergey Brin, and Larry Page making transformative contributions.
Stanford’s smart investment strategies and generous donor base, including gifts from Phil Knight and the Hewlett and Packard families, ensure continued innovation, research, and generous financial aid for top-tier students.
3. Yale University – $40.7 Billion
Yale University, with a staggering $40.7 billion endowment, is one of the wealthiest and most prestigious institutions in the world. Founded in 1701, Yale has long been a leader in law, business, and the arts, with its famed Yale Law School producing Supreme Court justices and U.S. presidents, including Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush. The university’s endowment has thrived under a unique investment strategy pioneered by the late David Swensen, yielding high returns through diversified assets.
Generous alumni like Stephen Schwarzman and David Geffen have contributed millions. This financial strength allows Yale to provide world-class research opportunities, generous financial aid, and unmatched academic excellence.
2. University of Texas System – $44.9 Billion
The University of Texas System boasts an astonishing $44.9 billion endowment, making it the second-wealthiest university system in the U.S. Unlike private institutions, UT’s fortune comes largely from the Permanent University Fund (PUF), a massive oil-rich land grant established in 1876 that continues to generate billions. This financial powerhouse supports 13 universities, including flagship campuses UT Austin and UT Dallas. UT Austin, known for its top-tier business, law, and engineering programs, has produced notable alumni like Michael Dell and Matthew McConaughey.
With such vast resources, the system funds groundbreaking medical research, cutting-edge facilities, and extensive financial aid, ensuring a bright future for Texas students and beyond.
1. Harvard University – $53.2 Billion
Harvard University, the undisputed king of endowments, sits atop the wealthiest colleges in America with a staggering $53.2 billion. Founded in 1636, it’s the oldest university in the U.S. and a global powerhouse in academics, research, and innovation. Harvard’s endowment has grown through smart investments, high-yield returns, and generous alumni donations from figures like Bill Gates, Michael Bloomberg, and Mark Zuckerberg. With its world-renowned programs in law, medicine, and business, Harvard has produced eight U.S. presidents and countless Nobel laureates.
Its financial strength allows it to offer robust financial aid, cutting-edge research, and a prestigious reputation that continues to attract top talent worldwide.