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Harvard University vs Washington University in St Louis

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

29
Harvard Wins
6
Tied / N/A
11
Washington Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Plains
7,601
Enrollment
7,857
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
12%
1553
SAT Average
1530
35
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1500-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$65,790
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,790
$19,066
Average Net Price
$21,786
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,716
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$1,928
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,578
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$42,170
16%
Pell Grant Rate
18%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
12%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
94%
98%
Retention Rate
95%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
73%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,945
26%
First-Gen Students
11%

Student Body

50%
Female
53%
31%
White
40%
12%
Hispanic
13%
9%
Black
9%
22%
Asian
21%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$78,073
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$81,347
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$86,182
$14,000
Median Debt
$17,500
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
88%
Earning Above HS
84%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
103.72%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5350.8%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
193.8%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$180,200

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
11.1%

Research (Times HE)

#1
World Rank
#38
99.7
Teaching Score
58.9
98.7
Research Score
63
98.8
Citations Score
88.6

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 University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · Private nonprofit

12% accept 94% grad $86,182 earnings $21,786 net

With an acceptance rate of just 12%, Washington University in St. Louis attracts driven students looking for a rigorous academic environment. It’s a great fit for those interested in fields like engineering, biology, social sciences, computer science, and business. The graduation rate of 94% reflects a supportive community that helps students succeed and achieve their goals.

Life after graduation looks promising, with alumni reporting an average earnings of $86,182 ten years out. This figure highlights the potential for financial stability in a variety of career paths. While nearly 18% of students receive Pell Grants, the school’s commitment to affordability helps ensure that students from different economic backgrounds can thrive.

On the financial side, the net price after aid stands at $21,786, and the median debt for graduates is $17,500. This manageable debt load suggests that students here often leave school with a solid foundation for their financial futures. Those who tend to thrive are often self-motivated and eager to engage deeply with their studies and the campus community.

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