University of California-Merced vs Harvard University
Merced, CA — Cambridge, MA
| Metric | University of California-Merced Merced, CA | Harvard University Cambridge, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Merced, CA | Cambridge, MA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 8,372 | 7,601 |
| Acceptance Rate | 90.5% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,623 | $61,676 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $49,823 | $61,676 |
| Avg Net Price | $11,983 | $19,066 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $16,144 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 68.9% | 97.5% |
| Retention Rate | 82.1% | 98.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $48,475 | $99,572 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $64,368 | $101,817 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 142300.0% | 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-Merced
Merced, CA
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-Merced and Harvard University compare?▼
University of California-Merced (Merced, CA) has an acceptance rate of 90.5%, in-state tuition of $15,623, and median 10-year earnings of $64,368. 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-Merced or Harvard University?▼
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $64,368. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Merced or Harvard University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Merced is the more affordable option at $11,983 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 68.9%.
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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