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Harvard University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus

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

22
Harvard Wins
14
Tied / N/A
10
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Southeast
7,601
Enrollment
17,597
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
17%
1553
SAT Average
1480
35
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1410-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$21,803
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$59,512
$19,066
Average Net Price
$21,565
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,174
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$9,696
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$13,283
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,402
16%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
95%
98%
Retention Rate
98%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
96%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,428
26%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

50%
Female
55%
31%
White
49%
12%
Hispanic
8%
9%
Black
8%
22%
Asian
20%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$72,359
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$80,156
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$86,863
$14,000
Median Debt
$17,500
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
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
1.82
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.01
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
8.6%

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 Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

17% accept 95% grad $86,863 earnings $21,565 net

With an acceptance rate of just 17%, the University of Virginia-Main Campus attracts students who are ready for an academically rigorous environment. It’s a great fit for those interested in a wide range of disciplines, particularly in humanities, social sciences, engineering, business, and computer science. Students here are not just looking for a degree; they’re aiming for a transformative college experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

After graduation, students typically see solid returns on their investment. With a median earning of $86,863 ten years post-graduation, many graduates find themselves in a stable financial position. The affordable net price of $21,565 means that with careful planning and support, students can graduate with manageable debt, averaging around $17,500. This financial outlook is encouraging, especially for those who may worry about student loans impacting their future.

Ultimately, the practical aspects of attending UVA-Main Campus play a crucial role in student success. With a supportive environment, it’s a place where driven students can thrive, particularly those who are proactive about taking advantage of the resources available. This community fosters not just academic excellence but also personal growth, making it a smart choice for those ready to engage deeply in their education.

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