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Fairfield University vs Harvard University

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

9
Fairfield Wins
8
Tied / N/A
29
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
New England
5,373
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1335
SAT Average
1553
29
ACT Midpoint
35
1260-1390
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$48,095
Average Net Price
$19,066
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
7%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
97%
91%
Retention Rate
98%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
17%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

65%
Female
50%
79%
White
31%
9%
Hispanic
12%
1%
Black
9%
2%
Asian
22%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$26,000
Median Debt
$14,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
85%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.69
0.03
Friending Bias
0.02
3.9%
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

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · Private nonprofit

33% accept 84% grad $88,794 earnings $48,095 net

Fairfield University has an impressive graduation rate of 84%, indicating that most students successfully complete their degrees. This high rate suggests a strong support system and engaged faculty, which helps students navigate their academic journey.

According to Opportunity Insights data, Fairfield's graduates earn a median income of $88,794 ten years after enrollment. This figure points to the university’s effectiveness in preparing students for the job market, particularly in fields like Business, Health Professions, and Communications. While the Pell Grant rate stands at 7%, indicating limited access for low-income students, the potential for upward mobility remains significant for those who do enroll.

The cost of attending Fairfield is notable, with a net price of $48,095 and a median debt of $26,000. Students who thrive here are often those pursuing careers in high-demand sectors, leveraging the university's strong programs in Business and Health Professions. Graduates leave with solid earning potential, which helps to mitigate the financial burden of their education.

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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