University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Harvard University

Columbia, SC — Cambridge, MA

Metric
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Location Columbia, SC Cambridge, MA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 29,820 7,601
Acceptance Rate 60.2% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,297 1,553
In-State Tuition $12,688 $61,676
Out-of-State Tuition $35,972 $61,676
Avg Net Price $22,811 $19,066
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 78.3% 97.5%
Retention Rate 92.2% 98.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $50,621 $99,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $62,177 $101,817
Loan Repayment Rate 751700.0% 42000.0%

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

Full Profile
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of South Carolina-Columbia and Harvard University compare?
University of South Carolina-Columbia (Columbia, SC) has an acceptance rate of 60.2%, in-state tuition of $12,688, and median 10-year earnings of $62,177. 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 South Carolina-Columbia or Harvard University?
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $62,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Harvard University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Harvard University is the more affordable option at $19,066 per year versus $22,811.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 78.3%.

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