Stanford University

One of the United States' premier educational establishments, Stanford University's heritage, expansive curriculum and highly-qualified faculty attracts some of the brightest minds from all across the planet. Founded in the year 1891, student life is given tremendous importance by fostering a love for the literary, performing and visual arts, while athletics and fitness facilities abound throughout the campus. Spread across close to 8,000 acres (3,237 hectares) of hilly land, its Spanish architecture inspired residential campus is one of the finest in California. The Stanford Memorial Church, the Lou Henry Hoover House, the Hoover, and 'The Dish' are some of its campus' most famed attractions. Notable alumni include the likes of Elon Musk, Reese Witherspoon and Google CEO Sundar Pichai.