University of California-Berkeley vs Harvard University

Berkeley, CA — Cambridge, MA

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

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

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University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Berkeley and Harvard University compare?
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. 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, University of California-Berkeley or Harvard University?
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, University of California-Berkeley or Harvard University?
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%.

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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