Rankings / National

Hardest Colleges to Get Into

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$91,925

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

93%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,872

Avg. Net Price

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Stanford University graduates earn $124,080 on average, the highest in this group. This number could shape your family's financial future.

Families searching for the hardest colleges to get into often seek prestige and high earning potential. The reality is that acceptance rates reflect a competitive landscape. Parents want assurance that their investment leads to successful outcomes, like good earnings and manageable debt.

Consider Harvard University and Yale University. Harvard's graduation rate is 97%, while Yale's is 96%. Yet, Harvard graduates face an average net price of $19,066 compared to Yale's $23,777. These figures highlight the financial trade-offs within elite institutions.

Key Findings

Stanford graduates earn an average of $124,080, the highest among the top five.

Harvard's graduation rate is 97%, leading to strong post-college earnings.

Columbia University has a net price of $21,590, which is significantly higher than Stanford's $13,807.

The average debt for Columbia graduates is $21,500, the highest in this group.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $91,925

Avg. graduation rate 93%

Avg. net price $23,872

Avg. median debt $16,209

How We Ranked

Ranked by acceptance rate, lowest first

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

Graduation97%

Earnings$101,817

Net Price$19,066

View full profile →

Yale University

New Haven, CT

Graduation96%

Earnings$100,533

Net Price$23,777

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

After financial aid, Stanford's net price is $13,807. Graduates carry a median debt of $12,000, leading to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.1x, making repayment achievable for many.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

The net price at Harvard is $19,066 after aid. Graduates have a median debt of $14,000, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14x, which is manageable for graduates entering the workforce.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

At Yale, the net price after aid is $23,777. Graduates leave with a median debt of $12,975, leading to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.13x, making it feasible for many students to manage their loans.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

After aid, the University of Chicago has a net price of $14,860. Graduates face a median debt of $15,000, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.16x, making it manageable for many students.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a 5% acceptance rate, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology attracts some of the brightest minds in the country. The 96% graduation rate indicates that students find their footing and succeed in a rigorous environment. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $143,372 after ten years, a figure that reflects the high demand for their skills in the workforce.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University, located in New Jersey, is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education. The 97% graduation rate shows that students thrive in this nurturing academic setting. Graduates can expect median earnings of $110,066 after ten years, showcasing the value of a Princeton degree in the job market.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia's net price stands at $21,590 after aid. Graduates carry a median debt of $21,500, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21x, which some may find challenging but achievable.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University, situated in Providence, has a unique Open Curriculum that allows students to tailor their education. The 96% graduation rate reflects a supportive academic environment where students can explore their interests without rigid requirements. Graduates earn a median of $93,487 after ten years, indicating strong career outcomes for its alumni.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College in Hanover prides itself on its close-knit community and immersive learning experiences. With a 96% graduation rate, students often find a supportive network that enhances their academic journey. Graduates report median earnings of $97,434 after ten years, a testament to the college's focus on student success in diverse career paths.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#10

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a 5% acceptance rate, University of Pennsylvania attracts some of the brightest minds. Students benefit from a 97% graduation rate, indicating strong support and resources throughout their studies.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University in Boston combines rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on experiential learning. With a 90% graduation rate, students benefit from co-op programs that integrate professional experience with classroom learning. Graduates earn a median income of $92,538 after ten years, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach in preparing students for careers.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#12

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University has a 96% graduation rate, showing a strong commitment to student success. The campus culture is vibrant, with numerous opportunities for research and extracurricular activities that engage students across disciplines.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville has a 93% graduation rate, indicating strong student support and academic rigor. Students enjoy a rich campus life, with a diverse array of organizations and activities that foster connections and personal growth.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#14

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University has a 94% graduation rate, highlighting its dedication to academic excellence. Located in Baltimore, the university is renowned for its research opportunities and interdisciplinary programs that attract eager learners and future leaders in various fields.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University has a 95% graduation rate, indicating strong academic support. Located in Houston, it combines a small student body with access to a major city. Students appreciate the close-knit community and the research opportunities available here.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

With a 7% acceptance rate, Pomona College attracts some of the brightest students in the country. The 93% graduation rate indicates strong support for students, helping them succeed academically and personally in Claremont, California.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#17

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College has a median earnings figure of $80,490 at ten years post-graduation, reflecting solid career outcomes for its graduates. The picturesque setting in Waterville, Maine, and a strong focus on undergraduate education make it appealing to students seeking a close-knit community.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College boasts a 95% graduation rate, showcasing its commitment to student success. Located in Brunswick, Maine, the college emphasizes a strong liberal arts education that prepares students for diverse career paths and life experiences.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#19

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University emphasizes student success. A diverse course selection and a vibrant campus life attract many students. The strong network in Chicago offers unique internship opportunities.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#20

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, located in Pennsylvania, has a graduation rate of 93%. The college emphasizes academic excellence and a tight-knit campus culture, making it a great option for students who thrive in collaborative environments.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#21

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University has a graduation rate of 95%, showcasing its dedication to student outcomes. With over 15,000 students, it offers a diverse range of programs in a stunning campus environment. The opportunities for research and innovation attract many ambitious students.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#22

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

With a 9% acceptance rate, New York University is selective. Students often find themselves in a vibrant urban environment, surrounded by diverse opportunities and a large student body of 28,663. The 88% graduation rate suggests most students successfully navigate their studies in this bustling setting.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College maintains a graduation rate of 95%, reflecting its commitment to student achievement. With only 2,076 students, it fosters a tight community. The scenic campus and strong liberal arts programs attract many driven individuals.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#24

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

With a 10% acceptance rate, the University of Southern California is highly selective. Students can expect a vibrant campus life in Los Angeles, home to numerous cultural and professional opportunities. The median earnings of graduates reach $92,498 within a decade of graduation, reflecting strong career prospects.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

With a 9% acceptance rate, Amherst College attracts some of the brightest students in the country. The small campus in Amherst, MA, houses 1,911 students and boasts a 94% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median of $77,644 after ten years, indicating strong career outcomes for alumni.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#26

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology is known for its rigorous science and engineering programs, with a mere 3% acceptance rate. The small size of 987 students allows for intense focus and collaboration in research. Graduates achieve a median income of $128,566 after a decade, which justifies the $16,075 net price and reflects the school's strong career outcomes.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#27

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University, located in Atlanta, hosts 7,298 students. The campus combines rigorous academics with a diverse student body, making it a great place for collaboration and growth. Alumni report median earnings of $80,137 after ten years, indicating solid financial outcomes for graduates.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

With a 9% acceptance rate, Barnard College in New York City attracts students looking for a rigorous academic environment. Ninety-three percent of students graduate, highlighting the supportive community and resources available to them.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#29

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Boston University supports a diverse student body of 18,248. Students can earn a median income of $83,238 ten years after graduation, showing solid potential for success in their careers.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#30

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Notre Dame has a graduation rate of 96%, one of the highest in the country. With a strong alumni network, students enjoy median earnings of $99,980 ten years post-graduation, which reflects the university's commitment to student outcomes.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#31

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College has a small student body of 1,388, fostering close relationships among students and faculty. The college focuses on economics and government, giving students a strong foundation for careers in public policy and business. Graduates earn a median income of $104,736 after ten years, showcasing the return on investment.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#32

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

Tufts University has a graduation rate of 93% and is home to around 7,061 students. With a median earning of $83,214 a decade after graduation, it prepares students well for their careers in a supportive environment.

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 93% and a student body of 7,304. Graduates enjoy a median earnings figure of $114,862 ten years after earning their degree, reflecting the university's focus on technology and the arts.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#34

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

Middlebury College, nestled in Vermont, has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education with a student population of 2,738. The 11% acceptance rate highlights its exclusivity. Graduates earn a median salary of $76,310 after ten years, making the investment worthwhile despite a net price of $31,483.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#35

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

With a 94% graduation rate, Washington University in St. Louis emphasizes student success. This private university has a strong support system that helps students thrive academically and socially in a vibrant campus environment.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#36

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology has a graduation rate of 93%, showing strong support for its students. This public university serves 18,785 students and emphasizes technology and engineering programs. Graduates earn a median of $102,772 within ten years, an attractive figure for prospective students.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#37

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, with only 1,430 students, fosters a close-knit community. The 90% graduation rate suggests that students receive significant support, allowing them to engage deeply in their studies and campus life.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#38

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University has a strong academic reputation, highlighted by its 95% graduation rate. Located in Washington, DC, it offers students access to unique internship opportunities and a diverse range of extracurricular activities that enhance the college experience.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#39

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 33,475 students · Public

UCLA’s graduation rate is impressive at 93%, and the university supports over 33,000 students. With a median earning of $82,511 ten years after graduation, students benefit from extensive opportunities in a major metropolitan area.

9% accepted 93% graduate $82,511 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College, located in Lewiston, ME, has a close community with 1,760 students and a 90% graduation rate. This private institution emphasizes critical thinking and social responsibility, making it appealing to students who value both academics and community engagement.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College has a tight-knit community with just 1,867 students, fostering close relationships among peers and faculty. A 91% graduation rate indicates that most students complete their degrees, which speaks to the strong support systems in place. The college's focus on academic rigor attracts dedicated students who value a personalized educational experience.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#42

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, located in Clinton, NY, has a graduation rate of 91%. With 2,030 students, this college nurtures a personalized learning experience. The focus on liberal arts cultivates critical thinking and strong communication skills, which are valuable in various career paths.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#44

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University, located in Hamilton, NY, has a graduation rate of 91%, signifying strong academic performance. With 3,180 students, the university promotes a close-knit community and vibrant campus life. Students enjoy a range of extracurricular activities and a focus on liberal arts education, which encourages critical thinking and personal growth.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#45

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, with a 14% acceptance rate, is dedicated to women's education. The campus fosters a close-knit community, with just 2,300 students. Graduates see a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years, reflecting strong outcomes for its alumni.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#46

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College has a 15% acceptance rate, attracting academically driven students to its small campus of 1,729. With an 88% graduation rate, the school emphasizes student success. Graduates earn a median salary of $62,830 after ten years, highlighting the value of its education.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#47

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College has an impressive graduation rate of 93%, attracting students interested in science and engineering. With only 921 students, the college promotes a collaborative and engaging learning environment. Graduates typically command high salaries, reflecting the school's strong emphasis on STEM fields.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#48

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

With a 93% graduation rate, University of California-Berkeley shows strong student success. The campus thrives on a diverse student body of 33,068, offering a vibrant atmosphere for learning and growth. Students often appreciate the rich culture and numerous resources available to them.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University boasts a graduation rate of 94%, which indicates strong academic support for students. With a small student body of 1,881, the university fosters an intimate learning environment. Graduates achieve a median earning of $94,810 after ten years, positioning them well in the job market.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#50

The Juilliard School

New York, NY · 468 students · Private nonprofit

The Juilliard School in New York City has a 91% graduation rate, attracting students passionate about performing arts. With only 468 students, the intimate setting allows for personalized instruction and mentorship from top professionals in the field.

9% accepted 91% graduate $37,827 earnings

Stanford University outperforms Yale University in earnings. Stanford's graduates average $124,080 while Yale's earn $100,533. The difference of $23,547 may influence decisions regarding financial return on investment.

After reviewing 50 schools, consider your family's priorities. Weigh location, program fit, and campus culture against these numbers. Determine what aspects matter most to you and your student. This can guide your school list as you navigate the application process.

This data reveals the challenges of selecting a college. A single decision can impact financial stability for years. Choosing wisely means considering both academic and financial outcomes. One family may prioritize low debt, while another focuses on high earnings. Understanding these dynamics can lead to informed choices.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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