Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs Harvard University
Blacksburg, VA — Cambridge, MA
| Metric | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA | Harvard University Cambridge, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Blacksburg, VA | Cambridge, MA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 30,923 | 7,601 |
| Acceptance Rate | 54.8% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,364 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,948 | $61,676 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $37,764 | $61,676 |
| Avg Net Price | $24,953 | $19,066 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 86.3% | 97.5% |
| Retention Rate | 93.1% | 98.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $67,377 | $99,572 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $81,698 | $101,817 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 661700.0% | 42000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Harvard University compare?▼
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698. 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, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Harvard University?▼
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $81,698. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 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 $24,953.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 86.3%.
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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