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Boston University vs Harvard University

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

11
Boston Wins
5
Tied / N/A
30
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
New England
18,248
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

11%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1480
SAT Average
1553
33
ACT Midpoint
35
1420-1530
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$68,102
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$68,102
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$24,402
Average Net Price
$19,066
$9,500
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$9,342
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$11,778
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$47,504
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
19%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
23%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
97%
95%
Retention Rate
98%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$16,623
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
17%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

65%
Female
50%
32%
White
31%
11%
Hispanic
12%
6%
Black
9%
21%
Asian
22%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$65,655
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$73,661
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$83,238
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$23,250
Median Debt
$14,000
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
81%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

201.75%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
5043.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
400.0%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$126,800
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.69
-0.00
Friending Bias
0.02
9.7%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

#59
World Rank
#1
53.6
Teaching Score
99.7
51.9
Research Score
98.7
91.4
Citations Score
98.8

The Overviews

Boston University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 89% grad $83,238 earnings $24,402 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Boston University is a great fit for motivated students who are ready to engage with a vibrant urban campus. It's an appealing choice for those interested in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Communications, Biology & Biomedical, or Computer Science & IT. The school’s diverse offerings attract students who are eager to explore various disciplines and prepare for dynamic careers.

After graduation, students from Boston University can expect to earn an impressive average of $83,238 within a decade. This means graduates are stepping into solid financial footing relatively quickly, which is encouraging for those considering their return on investment. With a graduation rate of 89%, it shows that students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees, paving the way for upward mobility in their careers.

When it comes to the practical side of financing your education, the net price after aid stands at approximately $24,402, which is manageable for many families. The median debt for graduates is $23,250, a figure that many could navigate effectively post-graduation. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are ready to take advantage of Boston’s resources and connections, ultimately setting themselves up for successful futures.

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit

4% accept 97% grad $101,817 earnings $19,066 net

With an acceptance rate of just 4%, Harvard University is a place where the most driven and ambitious students find their footing. It’s especially suitable for those drawn to rigorous academic programs like Social Sciences, Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physical Sciences. The environment here encourages intellectual curiosity and a commitment to excellence, attracting a diverse group of scholars who are ready to engage deeply with their studies.

After graduation, the financial outlook is promising, with alumni earning an average of $101,817 within ten years. This level of earning power is a significant motivator for students considering their future. While the cost of education is an important factor, many graduates see a strong return on their investment, which makes the financial commitment worthwhile for those who can navigate the admissions process.

When we look at the practical aspects, the net price after aid stands at $19,066, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $14,000. This financial structure allows students to focus on their education without being overwhelmed by debt. Those who thrive at Harvard often share a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world, making the most of the resources and opportunities available to them.

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