Princeton University vs Harvard University

Princeton, NJ — Cambridge, MA

Metric
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Location Princeton, NJ Cambridge, MA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 5,709 7,601
Acceptance Rate 4.6% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,553 1,553
In-State Tuition $62,688 $61,676
Out-of-State Tuition $62,688 $61,676
Avg Net Price $6,128 $19,066
Median Debt at Graduation $10,320 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 97.4% 97.5%
Retention Rate 98.4% 98.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $87,815 $99,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $110,066 $101,817
Loan Repayment Rate 14700.0% 42000.0%

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

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Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Princeton University and Harvard University compare?
Princeton University (Princeton, NJ) has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, in-state tuition of $62,688, and median 10-year earnings of $110,066. 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, Princeton University or Harvard University?
Princeton University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $110,066 vs $101,817. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Princeton University or Harvard University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Princeton University is the more affordable option at $6,128 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 97.4%.

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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