University of California-Irvine vs Harvard University

Irvine, CA — Cambridge, MA

Metric
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Location Irvine, CA Cambridge, MA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 30,197 7,601
Acceptance Rate 28.6% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $15,722 $61,676
Out-of-State Tuition $49,922 $61,676
Avg Net Price $14,251 $19,066
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.4% 97.5%
Retention Rate 94.0% 98.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $56,210 $99,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $80,735 $101,817
Loan Repayment Rate 635700.0% 42000.0%

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

Full Profile
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Irvine and Harvard University compare?
University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) has an acceptance rate of 28.6%, in-state tuition of $15,722, and median 10-year earnings of $80,735. 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-Irvine or Harvard University?
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $80,735. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Irvine or Harvard University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Irvine is the more affordable option at $14,251 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 86.4%.

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