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College Comparison

Harvard University vs George Washington 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

George Washington University

Washington, DC

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricHarvardGeorge Washington
Acceptance Rate3.5%wins43.5%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1580wins1350–1500
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–36wins31–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$59,076wins$64,990
Avg Net Price$16,816wins$37,454
Median Earnings (10 yr)$101,817wins$90,873
Graduation Rate97.3%wins85.2%
Retention Rate98.6%wins91.9%
Student–Faculty Ratio7:1wins12:1
Total Enrollment7,75510,848wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Harvard edges out George Washington on 9 of 10 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
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–36
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076

George Washington Strengths

  • Total Enrollment: 10,848

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