Stanford University vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Stanford, CA — Cambridge, MA

Metric
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Location Stanford, CA Cambridge, MA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,554 4,535
Acceptance Rate 3.6% 4.5%
SAT Average 1,553 1,560
In-State Tuition $65,910 $62,396
Out-of-State Tuition $65,910 $62,396
Avg Net Price $13,807 $20,111
Median Debt at Graduation $12,000 $14,768
4-Year Graduation Rate 92.4% 96.2%
Retention Rate 98.2% 99.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $102,887 $131,633
Median Earnings (10 yr) $124,080 $143,372
Loan Repayment Rate 62500.0% 58700.0%

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

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Stanford University
Stanford, CA
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Stanford University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology 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. 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, Stanford University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $143,372 vs $124,080. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Stanford University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Stanford University is the more affordable option at $13,807 per year versus $20,111.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.2% vs 92.4%.

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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