College Comparison
Harvard University vs Princeton 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
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | Princeton |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 4.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1500–1580 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $59,710 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816 | $10,555wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817 | $110,066wins |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 97.1% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 97.3% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 5:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755wins | 5,579 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Princeton on 5 of 8 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%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Graduation Rate: 97.3%
- ✓Retention Rate: 98.6%
Princeton Strengths
- ✓Avg Net Price: $10,555
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $110,066
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 5:1
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