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Bucknell University vs Harvard University

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

6
Bucknell Wins
9
Tied / N/A
31
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
3,876
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

29%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1410
SAT Average
1553
31
ACT Midpoint
35
1310-1470
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,812
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$67,812
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$40,766
Average Net Price
$19,066
$20,980
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$12,276
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$23,679
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$55,724
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
12%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
35%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
97%
94%
Retention Rate
98%
97%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$13,254
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
12%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

52%
Female
50%
73%
White
31%
9%
Hispanic
12%
4%
Black
9%
4%
Asian
22%
0.44
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$78,852
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$88,483
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$93,807
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$27,000
Median Debt
$14,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
88%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

146.01%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
5515.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
264.8%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$149,800
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.69
0.01
Friending Bias
0.02
6.1%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#1
N/A
Teaching Score
99.7
N/A
Research Score
98.7
N/A
Citations Score
98.8

The Overviews

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · Private nonprofit

29% accept 86% grad $93,807 earnings $40,766 net

With an enrollment of about 3,876 students, Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, is an excellent fit for those seeking a close-knit academic community. The school has a 29% acceptance rate, which reflects a selective approach to admissions, and an impressive graduation rate of 86%. Students here typically dive into programs like Social Sciences, Engineering, Business & Marketing, Biology & Biomedical, and Psychology, gaining both depth and breadth in their fields.

After graduation, Bucknell alumni find themselves in strong positions, with earnings averaging $93,807 a decade after they leave. This figure illustrates a solid return on investment for the education received, helping graduates build successful careers. While the median debt stands at $27,000, the balance seems manageable when considering the financial pathways that open up for graduates.

When we look at the cost of attendance, the net price after aid is about $40,766, which can feel significant but is often offset by the financial advantages graduates experience. Students who thrive here generally come with a sense of ambition and a commitment to making the most of the resources available. Bucknell seems to attract those ready to engage deeply in their studies and leverage their education for future success.

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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