<p>Academics:</p>
<ol>
<li>Big10</li>
<li>Pac-10</li>
<li>ACC
While ACC schools have slightly better USN average than the Big10 schools, that advantage comes primarily from its better selectivity because ACC schools are located in states with denser population (more people applying and lower admit rate). ACC schools are not that great when it comes to research, faculty awards, graduate programs, and peer assessment/reputation.</li>
</ol>