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Harvard University vs University of Massachusetts-Amherst

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
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
New England
7,601
Enrollment
23,671
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
60%
1553
SAT Average
1423
35
ACT Midpoint
31
1510-1580
SAT Range
1310-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$17,772
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,449
$19,066
Average Net Price
$22,383
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$10,164
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,456
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,932
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$30,793
16%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
47%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
83%
98%
Retention Rate
92%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
81%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,663
26%
First-Gen Students
22%

Student Body

50%
Female
52%
31%
White
57%
12%
Hispanic
9%
9%
Black
5%
22%
Asian
14%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.64

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$60,347
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$66,904
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$71,631
$14,000
Median Debt
$22,763
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.32x
88%
Earning Above HS
75%

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
1.80
0.02
Friending Bias
0.01
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
9.0%

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.

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · Public

60% accept 83% grad $71,631 earnings $22,383 net

With an enrollment of 23,671 students, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a great fit for those looking for a diverse and vibrant campus life. It stands out for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Engineering. Students here are often engaged in a wide range of studies, reflecting both academic rigor and practical application. The acceptance rate of 60% means that while it’s accessible, there’s still a competitive edge that can stimulate personal growth.

Graduates from UMass-Amherst can expect solid outcomes, with a median earning of $71,631 ten years after graduation. This figure speaks volumes about the potential return on investment. It’s encouraging to know that students can find rewarding careers, especially considering the affordability of education here. The net price after aid is $22,383, which positions the school as a reasonable choice for many families.

When it comes to finances, the median debt stands at $22,763, which is manageable given the earning potential. UMass-Amherst tends to attract students who are motivated and ready to embrace the opportunities that come with a public university experience. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, there’s a commitment to supporting diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Overall, this school nurtures those who are eager to thrive both academically and professionally after graduation.

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