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College Comparison

Harvard University vs Ohio State 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

Ohio State University

Columbus, OH

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricHarvardOhio State
Acceptance Rate3.5%wins50.8%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1580wins1330–1480
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–36wins29–32
Tuition (Out-of-State)$59,076$38,365wins
Avg Net Price$16,816wins$18,292
Median Earnings (10 yr)$101,817wins$60,409
Graduation Rate97.3%wins87.7%
Retention Rate98.6%wins94.1%
Student–Faculty Ratio7:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment7,75544,617wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Ohio State on 8 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
  • Avg Net Price: $16,816

Ohio State Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $38,365
  • Total Enrollment: 44,617

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