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George Washington University vs Harvard University

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

9
George Wins
7
Tied / N/A
30
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
11,182
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1433
SAT Average
1553
32
ACT Midpoint
35
1350-1500
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$36,586
Average Net Price
$19,066
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
16%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
97%
92%
Retention Rate
98%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
16%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

63%
Female
50%
48%
White
31%
14%
Hispanic
12%
8%
Black
9%
16%
Asian
22%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$20,449
Median Debt
$14,000
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
82%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

215.66%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
4225.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
510.4%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$137,300
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.69
0.02
Friending Bias
0.02
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
#1
60.6
Teaching Score
99.7
43.1
Research Score
98.7
70.2
Citations Score
98.8

The Overviews

George Washington University

Washington, DC · Private nonprofit

47% accept 85% grad $90,873 earnings $36,586 net

George Washington University reports a striking graduation rate of 85%. This figure reflects the university's commitment to student success and its supportive academic environment. With a significant portion of students completing their degrees, GWU stands out for those seeking reliable pathways to graduation.

The earnings potential for graduates is compelling. Alumni earn an average of $90,873 within ten years of graduation. This income level positions graduates well within the job market, contributing to long-term financial stability. Although specific mobility data is not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are likely to improve their economic circumstances through their education at GWU.

The net price for attending George Washington University is $36,586, with a median debt of $20,449. This balance makes it an appealing choice for students who can manage costs while aiming for solid post-graduate earnings. GWU attracts those interested in fields like social sciences, health professions, and business, where graduates find ample opportunities to thrive in Washington, D.C.'s dynamic job market.

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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