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Harvard University vs University of Notre Dame

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

31
Harvard Wins
5
Tied / N/A
10
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
7,601
Enrollment
8,818
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
11%
1553
SAT Average
1520
35
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1455-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$65,025
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,025
$19,066
Average Net Price
$26,780
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,244
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$7,254
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$11,432
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$45,321
16%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
25%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
96%
98%
Retention Rate
99%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,830
26%
First-Gen Students
10%

Student Body

50%
Female
46%
31%
White
59%
12%
Hispanic
15%
9%
Black
5%
22%
Asian
6%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.61

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$86,210
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$94,844
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$99,980
$14,000
Median Debt
$19,000
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
88%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
89.73%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6239.9%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
143.8%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$165,400

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.46
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.01
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
4.3%

Research (Times HE)

#1
World Rank
#63
99.7
Teaching Score
56.4
98.7
Research Score
45.1
98.8
Citations Score
89.1

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 Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · Private nonprofit

11% accept 96% grad $99,980 earnings $26,780 net

The University of Notre Dame has an impressive graduation rate of 96%. This means that the vast majority of students who start their studies here complete their degrees on time. Such a high rate indicates strong student support and academic rigor.

According to the Chetty/Opportunity Insights data, specific mobility outcomes for Notre Dame students are not available. However, the strong graduation rate and high earnings after ten years suggest that graduates from this institution tend to secure stable, well-paying jobs. The average earnings for alumni reach $99,980, reflecting the quality of education and career preparation they receive.

Prospective students should consider the financial aspects as well. The net price for attending Notre Dame is $26,780, with a median debt of $19,000 after graduation. While the Pell Grant rate is 14%, students who thrive here often pursue majors in Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science, aligning their education with strong job markets.

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