Skip to content
CollegeRanker

Compare

Harvard University vs Wellesley College

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

24
Harvard Wins
9
Tied / N/A
13
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
New England
7,601
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1553
SAT Average
1520
35
ACT Midpoint
33
1510-1580
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$19,066
Average Net Price
$25,496
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
16%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
91%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
26%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

50%
Female
N/A
31%
White
30%
12%
Hispanic
14%
9%
Black
8%
22%
Asian
26%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$14,000
Median Debt
$10,000
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
88%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.00
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

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.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

Sponsored

Compare Accredited Programs Accepting Applicants

Matched to high-demand fields — request info, free.

Ad