California State University-Northridge vs Harvard University

Northridge, CA — Cambridge, MA

Metric
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Location Northridge, CA Cambridge, MA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 32,691 7,601
Acceptance Rate 93.5% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $7,458 $61,676
Out-of-State Tuition $20,058 $61,676
Avg Net Price $7,021 $19,066
Median Debt at Graduation $13,872 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 56.5% 97.5%
Retention Rate 73.4% 98.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $44,372 $99,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,115 $101,817
Loan Repayment Rate 999500.0% 42000.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do California State University-Northridge and Harvard University compare?
California State University-Northridge (Northridge, CA) has an acceptance rate of 93.5%, in-state tuition of $7,458, and median 10-year earnings of $59,115. Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $61,676, and median 10-year earnings of $101,817.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-Northridge or Harvard University?
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $59,115. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-Northridge or Harvard University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Northridge is the more affordable option at $7,021 per year versus $19,066.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 56.5%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025