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Brown University vs Harvard University

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

15
Brown Wins
7
Tied / N/A
24
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
New England
7,226
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1546
SAT Average
1553
34
ACT Midpoint
35
1510-1580
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$25,184
Average Net Price
$19,066
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
14%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
97%
99%
Retention Rate
98%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
17%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

54%
Female
50%
33%
White
31%
12%
Hispanic
12%
8%
Black
9%
23%
Asian
22%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$11,428
Median Debt
$14,000
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
79%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$67,800
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.69
0.00
Friending Bias
0.02
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

#55
World Rank
#1
59.7
Teaching Score
99.7
57
Research Score
98.7
77.7
Citations Score
98.8

The Overviews

Brown University

Providence, RI · Private nonprofit

5% accept 96% grad $93,487 earnings $25,184 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Brown University in Providence, RI, is a selective option that attracts students driven to excel academically and personally. It’s a place for those who thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to dive into programs like Social Sciences, Computer Science, Biology, Mathematics, and Engineering. The high graduation rate of 96% speaks to the strong support system in place, making it a solid choice for ambitious students.

After graduation, Brown alumni see impressive earning potential, with a median income of $93,487 ten years post-graduation. This financial trajectory suggests that graduates are not just securing jobs, but often moving into roles that reward their hard work. While this school may come with a price tag, the outcomes reflect a community that values education and shapes successful careers.

When it comes to the finances, the net price after aid stands at $25,184, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $11,428. This is encouraging, especially for students who may be concerned about student loans. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated and ready to engage deeply with their studies, taking full advantage of the opportunities that come their way.

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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