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Princeton University vs Harvard University

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

21
Princeton Wins
11
Tied / N/A
14
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
5,709
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1553
SAT Average
1553
34
ACT Midpoint
35
1510-1580
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,688
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$62,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$6,128
Average Net Price
$19,066
$41
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$352
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$1,217
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$36,094
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
19%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
2%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
97%
98%
Retention Rate
98%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$25,354
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
28%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

51%
Female
50%
34%
White
31%
10%
Hispanic
12%
9%
Black
9%
23%
Asian
22%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$87,815
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$112,152
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$110,066
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$10,320
Median Debt
$14,000
0.09x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
83%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

134.58%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
6586.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
204.3%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$218,100
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.88
Economic Connectedness
1.69
-0.00
Friending Bias
0.02
10.8%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

#5
World Rank
#1
90.9
Teaching Score
99.7
95.4
Research Score
98.7
99.9
Citations Score
98.8

The Overviews

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · Private nonprofit

5% accept 97% grad $110,066 earnings $6,128 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Princeton University is not for everyone, but for those who make the cut, it’s a place where ambition meets opportunity. The school attracts bright minds, particularly in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, and Biology. Students here are often deeply engaged in their studies, working alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. This kind of environment fosters not just learning but also a strong sense of community among peers.

After graduation, the benefits of attending Princeton are clear. Alumni can expect an impressive average earning of $110,066 within a decade of finishing their degrees. This speaks volumes about the value of a Princeton education, especially when considering the high graduation rate of 97%. The school’s focus on producing skilled graduates who excel in their careers contributes significantly to their long-term success.

When it comes to finances, the net price after aid is manageable at $6,128, and the median debt stands at $10,320. This means many graduates leave with a realistic financial outlook, allowing them to focus on their careers rather than being weighed down by overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a variety of perspectives that enhance classroom discussions and campus life.

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.

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