Columbia University in the City of New York vs Harvard University
New York, NY — Cambridge, MA
| Metric | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY | Harvard University Cambridge, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | New York, NY | Cambridge, MA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 8,973 | 7,601 |
| Acceptance Rate | 4.0% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $71,845 | $61,676 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $71,845 | $61,676 |
| Avg Net Price | $21,590 | $19,066 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 97.5% |
| Retention Rate | 98.0% | 98.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $88,535 | $99,572 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491 | $101,817 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 185800.0% | 42000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia University in the City of New York and Harvard University compare?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491. 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, Columbia University in the City of New York or Harvard University?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $101,817. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or Harvard University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Harvard University is the more affordable option at $19,066 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 95.5%.
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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