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Harvard University vs Tufts University

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

34
Harvard Wins
5
Tied / N/A
7
Tufts Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
New England
7,601
Enrollment
7,061
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
11%
1553
SAT Average
1513
35
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1470-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$70,704
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$70,704
$19,066
Average Net Price
$39,998
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$11,284
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$9,811
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$14,923
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$58,570
16%
Pell Grant Rate
12%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
19%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
93%
98%
Retention Rate
96%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
64%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,205
26%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

50%
Female
46%
31%
White
41%
12%
Hispanic
10%
9%
Black
6%
22%
Asian
17%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.77

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$68,337
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$70,761
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$83,214
$14,000
Median Debt
$16,250
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
88%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
212.66%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6216.7%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
342.1%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$187,900

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.89
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.00
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
12.3%

Research (Times HE)

#1
World Rank
#53
99.7
Teaching Score
64.1
98.7
Research Score
52.3
98.8
Citations Score
83.9

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.

Tufts University

Medford, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 93% grad $83,214 earnings $39,998 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Tufts University attracts students who are ready to engage in a vibrant academic community. This school is ideal for those passionate about social sciences, engineering, biology and biomedical fields, computer science and IT, or the visual and performing arts. What stands out is the commitment to a well-rounded education that encourages exploration and interdisciplinary study, making it a great fit for curious minds eager to make an impact.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a 10-year median salary of $83,214. This figure highlights the strong return on investment for graduates. With a graduation rate of 93%, it's clear that students not only thrive academically but also transition successfully into their careers. While the Pell Grant rate is at 12%, indicating that a smaller percentage of students come from low-income backgrounds, those who do tend to find pathways to upward mobility in their professional lives.

Looking at the practical side, the net price of attending Tufts is around $39,998 after aid, which is significant but manageable for many. Graduates carry a median debt of $16,250, a figure that suggests a thoughtful balance between investment in education and financial responsibility. Students who tend to thrive here are those who are driven, engaged, and ready to take advantage of the diverse opportunities available on campus and beyond.

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