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Harvard University vs Purdue University-Main Campus

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

25
Harvard Wins
12
Tied / N/A
9
Purdue Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
7,601
Enrollment
44,503
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
50%
1553
SAT Average
1364
35
ACT Midpoint
30
1510-1580
SAT Range
1200-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$9,992
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$28,794
$19,066
Average Net Price
$14,600
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$5,098
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,241
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,438
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$22,742
16%
Pell Grant Rate
13%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
22%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
83%
98%
Retention Rate
93%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
96%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,473
26%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

50%
Female
47%
31%
White
54%
12%
Hispanic
8%
9%
Black
3%
22%
Asian
15%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.67

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$60,838
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$66,951
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$72,424
$14,000
Median Debt
$19,500
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.27x
88%
Earning Above HS
80%

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
1.67
0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
6.9%

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.

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN · Public

50% accept 83% grad $72,424 earnings $14,600 net

With an enrollment of over 44,500 students, Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a solid choice for those who thrive in a large, dynamic environment. It’s particularly appealing for students interested in engineering, business, computer science, biology, and social sciences. The 50% acceptance rate suggests a competitive atmosphere, and the 83% graduation rate indicates that many students are successfully completing their degrees.

After graduation, students can expect a median earning of $72,424 after ten years. That’s a significant number, especially for graduates entering fields like engineering and technology. While the cost of attendance is reasonable, the long-term financial outlook is promising, making it clear that a degree from Purdue can lead to solid career opportunities.

When it comes to affordability, the net price after aid averages around $14,600, which is manageable for many families. With a median debt of $19,500, students leave with a debt load that is relatively low compared to potential earnings. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated, ambitious, and ready to take advantage of the university's strong programs and supportive resources.

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