College Comparison
Harvard University vs Columbia University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
School
Columbia University
New York, NY
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 4.2% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580wins | 1490–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $69,045 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $20,148 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817 | $102,491wins |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 95.0% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 97.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755 | 8,899wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Columbia on 6 of 9 measurable categories — including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Harvard Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1580
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,491
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 6:1
- ✓Total Enrollment: 8,899
Want a deeper comparison?
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