Harvard and Yale, for two NYT crossword clue

Harvard and Yale are two of the most prestigious universities in the United States, both belonging to the Ivy League, a group of elite higher education institutions known for academic excellence, selective admissions, and historical significance. These schools have produced numerous influential figures in politics, business, law, and other fields, further cementing their reputations as centers of learning and leadership.

The answer to this crossword clue is “IVIES.” The term “Ivies” refers collectively to the eight Ivy League universities: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Dartmouth, Brown, Penn, and Cornell. These schools are recognized for their rigorous academics, competitive admissions, and long-standing traditions, making “Ivies” a fitting answer to describe Harvard and Yale.