Harvard University vs University of California-Berkeley

Cambridge, MA — Berkeley, CA

Metric
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
Location Cambridge, MA Berkeley, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 7,601 33,068
Acceptance Rate 3.6% 11.0%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $61,676 $16,347
Out-of-State Tuition $61,676 $50,547
Avg Net Price $19,066 $13,481
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 97.5% 92.9%
Retention Rate 98.3% 96.8%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $99,572 $74,919
Median Earnings (10 yr) $101,817 $92,446
Loan Repayment Rate 42000.0% 641400.0%

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

Full Profile
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Harvard University and University of California-Berkeley 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. University of California-Berkeley (Berkeley, CA) has an acceptance rate of 11.0%, in-state tuition of $16,347, and median 10-year earnings of $92,446.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Harvard University or University of California-Berkeley?
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $92,446. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Harvard University or University of California-Berkeley?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Berkeley is the more affordable option at $13,481 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 92.9%.

More Comparisons

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