Washington University in St Louis vs Harvard University

St. Louis, MO — Cambridge, MA

Metric
Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MO
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Location St. Louis, MO Cambridge, MA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,857 7,601
Acceptance Rate 12.1% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,530 1,553
In-State Tuition $65,790 $61,676
Out-of-State Tuition $65,790 $61,676
Avg Net Price $21,786 $19,066
Median Debt at Graduation $17,500 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 94.3% 97.5%
Retention Rate 95.0% 98.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $78,073 $99,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $86,182 $101,817
Loan Repayment Rate 104800.0% 42000.0%

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

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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MO
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Washington University in St Louis and Harvard University compare?
Washington University in St Louis (St. Louis, MO) has an acceptance rate of 12.1%, in-state tuition of $65,790, and median 10-year earnings of $86,182. 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, Washington University in St Louis or Harvard University?
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $86,182. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Washington University in St Louis 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 $21,786.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 94.3%.

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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