Harvard University vs University of California-Los Angeles

Cambridge, MA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Location Cambridge, MA Los Angeles, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 7,601 33,475
Acceptance Rate 3.6% 9.0%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $61,676 $15,203
Out-of-State Tuition $61,676 $49,403
Avg Net Price $19,066 $12,548
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 97.5% 92.6%
Retention Rate 98.3% 97.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $99,572 $59,063
Median Earnings (10 yr) $101,817 $82,511
Loan Repayment Rate 42000.0% 748300.0%

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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University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Harvard University and University of California-Los Angeles 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-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.0%, in-state tuition of $15,203, and median 10-year earnings of $82,511.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Harvard University or University of California-Los Angeles?
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $82,511. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Harvard University or University of California-Los Angeles?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Los Angeles is the more affordable option at $12,548 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 92.6%.

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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