Graduate income is reshaping how colleges are evaluated. Several colleges outside the Ivy League are producing graduates with stronger earning potential. These schools may not carry the same brand recognition, but their alumni earnings tell a different story. Here is a list of 10 colleges that turn degrees into higher paychecks
Massachusetts Institute Of Technology (MIT)
The prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology has produced countless business leaders through its demanding programs in computer science, biotechnology, and engineering. Home to 38 billionaire graduates and nearly 3,000 ultra-wealthy alumni, MIT demonstrates how innovation drives achievement. Prominent students also include Drew Houston and John W. Thompson.
Stanford University
Prestigious graduates such as Google’s Larry Page and Yahoo’s Jerry Yang highlight the university’s influence. Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford University has produced 94 billionaire graduates with an average net worth of $11.76 billion, ranking third nationwide for generating ultra-wealthy alumni.
London School Of Economics (LSE)
Since its founding by Fabian Society members in 1895, the London School of Economics has established itself as a premier institution for economics and social sciences. The school also ranks fifth globally among non-U.S. universities for ultra-wealthy graduates and claims several Nobel laureates.
University Of California
Tech pioneers and business leaders like Softbank’s Masayoshi Son, Intel’s Gordon Moore, and DoorDash’s Tony Xu demonstrate a proven record of creating industry titans. The University of California system remains a powerhouse for wealthy graduates, boasting 51 billionaire degree holders with an average net worth of $8.06 billion.
New York University (NYU)
Despite lacking Ivy League credentials, NYU consistently produces some of America’s wealthiest graduates. The university ranks fifth nationally for ultra-wealthy students, with exceptional strength in finance and business fields. Its billionaire alumni count rivals traditional elite institutions.
University Of Oxford
British excellence shines through the University of Oxford’s remarkable achievement as the leading non-American institution for wealthy graduates. This historic university has produced more ultra-wealthy graduates than any other non-U.S. school. It even surpasses Cambridge and has established itself as the top non-Ivy League wealth generator.
University Of Cambridge
Cambridge stands near the top in global wealth-making alumni, second only to Oxford beyond U.S. borders. More than 100 libraries serve as the backbone of its academic world. From boardrooms to tech hubs, Cambridge graduates continue to push boundaries and cement the university’s reputation as a launchpad for impact.
National University Of Singapore (NUS)
Singapore’s oldest higher education institution has built an impressive legacy of successful past students. NUS ranks third among non-U.S. universities for ultra-wealthy graduates. The university’s strong presence in the technology and finance sectors continues to grow through its distinguished alumni network.
INSEAD
“The Business School for the World” isn’t just a nickname for INSEAD – it’s a proven reality. Their acclaimed MBA program also operates across three continents, with campuses in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Among non-U.S. institutions, the school ranks fourth globally in producing graduates who are ultra-wealthy.
Northwestern University
Northwestern University stands out for its ability to produce high-profile business leaders. With more than five billionaire alumni, its influence spans publishing, investment, and insurance. Central to this achievement is the Kellogg School of Management, where rigorous training in marketing and strategy propelled figures like Patrick Ryan of Aon Corporation.
