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Harvard University vs Ohio State University-Main Campus

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

24
Harvard Wins
13
Tied / N/A
9
Ohio Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
7,601
Enrollment
45,638
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1553
SAT Average
1387
35
ACT Midpoint
29
1510-1580
SAT Range
1310-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$13,244
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,022
$19,066
Average Net Price
$17,339
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,885
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$5,751
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,807
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,359
16%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
29%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
88%
98%
Retention Rate
94%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
63%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,386
26%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

50%
Female
52%
31%
White
60%
12%
Hispanic
6%
9%
Black
8%
22%
Asian
11%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.61

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$51,438
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$56,186
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$60,409
$14,000
Median Debt
$19,976
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.33x
88%
Earning Above HS
72%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
N/A
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$174,000
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.57
0.02
Friending Bias
0.03
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
8.5%

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.

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public

61% accept 88% grad $60,409 earnings $17,339 net

With an enrollment of over 45,600 students, Ohio State University-Main Campus is a vibrant place for those seeking a large, diverse community. It attracts students who are eager to explore a variety of fields, especially in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Health Professions, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 61% means there's a good chance for students to join this dynamic environment, where the graduation rate stands impressively at 88%.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $60,409 within ten years of completing their degree. This level of income can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life, particularly when the cost of attending is manageable. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, Ohio State shows a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, providing pathways for upward mobility.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $17,339, which keeps college within reach for many families. The median debt load of $19,976 is relatively low compared to what students at other public institutions might face. This combination of affordability and strong outcomes makes Ohio State a fitting choice for motivated students who are ready to thrive in a collaborative and engaging setting.

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