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Harvard University vs Pennsylvania 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
14
Tied / N/A
8
Pennsylvania Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
7,601
Enrollment
42,284
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1553
SAT Average
1337
35
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1510-1580
SAT Range
1240-1420

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$20,644
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,790
$19,066
Average Net Price
$32,875
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$19,845
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$20,049
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$25,667
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$37,831
16%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
40%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
86%
98%
Retention Rate
93%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,120
26%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

50%
Female
50%
31%
White
63%
12%
Hispanic
9%
9%
Black
5%
22%
Asian
8%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.58

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$55,620
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$60,370
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$63,435
$14,000
Median Debt
$25,000
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39x
88%
Earning Above HS
73%

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
1.71
0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
6.0%

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.

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PA · Public

61% accept 86% grad $63,435 earnings $32,875 net

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

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