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Harvard University vs Washington and Lee University

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

30
Harvard Wins
9
Tied / N/A
7
Washington Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
New England
Region
Southeast
7,601
Enrollment
1,881
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1553
SAT Average
1498
35
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1430-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$68,045
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,045
$19,066
Average Net Price
$23,781
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-1,777
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$75
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,497
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$40,646
16%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
94%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,155
26%
First-Gen Students
N/A

Student Body

50%
Female
44%
31%
White
68%
12%
Hispanic
9%
9%
Black
5%
22%
Asian
5%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.52

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$76,516
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$89,772
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$94,810
$14,000
Median Debt
$19,500
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
88%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
57.09%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5102.3%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
111.9%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$226,700

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.82
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.

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 94% grad $94,810 earnings $23,781 net

With an acceptance rate of just 14%, Washington and Lee University draws students who are serious about their education and ready to engage deeply in their studies. This private institution, located in Lexington, Virginia, is known for strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Physical Sciences. If you’re looking for a place that encourages critical thinking and a close-knit community, this might just be the right fit for you.

Graduates from Washington and Lee see impressive earnings, with a median income of $94,810 ten years after graduation. This kind of financial outcome suggests that students who excel here are well-prepared for the job market and often find themselves in higher-paying positions. The strong graduation rate of 94% also points to a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and transition smoothly into their careers.

When it comes to the practicalities of attending Washington and Lee, the net price after aid stands at $23,781, which is relatively manageable given the high earning potential post-graduation. With a median debt of $19,500, students can graduate with a reasonable amount of loans, especially considering the high salaries many alumni achieve. Those who thrive here are typically driven, engaged, and ready to make the most of their educational experience.

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