Stanford University vs Harvard University
Stanford, CA — Cambridge, MA
| Metric | Stanford University Stanford, CA | Harvard University Cambridge, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Stanford, CA | Cambridge, MA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 7,554 | 7,601 |
| Acceptance Rate | 3.6% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $65,910 | $61,676 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $65,910 | $61,676 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,807 | $19,066 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 92.4% | 97.5% |
| Retention Rate | 98.2% | 98.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $102,887 | $99,572 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $124,080 | $101,817 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 62500.0% | 42000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Stanford University and Harvard University compare?▼
Stanford University (Stanford, CA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $65,910, and median 10-year earnings of $124,080. 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, Stanford University or Harvard University?▼
Stanford University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $124,080 vs $101,817. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Stanford University or Harvard University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Stanford University is the more affordable option at $13,807 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 92.4%.
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