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Harvard University vs Lafayette College

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

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

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
7,601
Enrollment
2,757
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
31%
1553
SAT Average
1424
35
ACT Midpoint
32
1510-1580
SAT Range
1350-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$65,398
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,398
$19,066
Average Net Price
$34,433
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,716
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$7,445
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$10,881
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$52,608
16%
Pell Grant Rate
12%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
88%
98%
Retention Rate
90%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$12,663
26%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

50%
Female
58%
31%
White
67%
12%
Hispanic
10%
9%
Black
6%
22%
Asian
3%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.54

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$80,614
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$84,452
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$91,410
$14,000
Median Debt
$16,000
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
88%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
162.69%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5854.6%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
277.9%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$156,700

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
6.5%

Research (Times HE)

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

The Overviews

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.

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · Private nonprofit

31% accept 88% grad $91,410 earnings $34,433 net

With an acceptance rate of 31%, Lafayette College in Easton, PA, is an appealing choice for students who are ready to engage deeply with their education in a supportive community. It’s a great fit for those interested in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Biology and Biomedical Studies, Psychology, and Visual and Performing Arts. The college’s emphasis on collaborative learning and hands-on experiences really stands out, making it a place where students can explore their passions while also preparing for their careers.

After graduation, Lafayette alumni can expect to earn an impressive average of $91,410 within ten years of completing their degrees. This figure highlights the strong return on investment that a Lafayette education can offer. With a graduation rate of 88%, it’s clear that students are not just enrolling here; they’re succeeding. This high success rate indicates that the college is effectively supporting students in their academic journeys, and that many are moving on to thriving careers.

In terms of affordability, the net price after aid is around $34,433, with a median debt load of $16,000 for graduates. This manageable debt level suggests that students can graduate with less financial burden, allowing them to focus on their careers and life after college. Lafayette tends to attract motivated individuals who are eager to make the most of their college experience, contributing to a vibrant campus culture where students thrive both academically and socially.

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