Harvard University vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA — Cambridge, MA

Metric
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Location Cambridge, MA Cambridge, MA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,601 4,535
Acceptance Rate 3.6% 4.5%
SAT Average 1,553 1,560
In-State Tuition $61,676 $62,396
Out-of-State Tuition $61,676 $62,396
Avg Net Price $19,066 $20,111
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $14,768
4-Year Graduation Rate 97.5% 96.2%
Retention Rate 98.3% 99.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $99,572 $131,633
Median Earnings (10 yr) $101,817 $143,372
Loan Repayment Rate 42000.0% 58700.0%

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

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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology compare?
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. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 4.5%, in-state tuition of $62,396, and median 10-year earnings of $143,372.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Harvard University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $143,372 vs $101,817. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Harvard University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Harvard University is the more affordable option at $19,066 per year versus $20,111.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 96.2%.

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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