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College Comparison

Harvard University vs University of Rochester: 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

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricHarvardU of Rochester
Acceptance Rate3.5%wins35.9%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1580wins1400–1540
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–36wins31–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$59,076wins$64,348
Avg Net Price$16,816wins$30,248
Median Earnings (10 yr)$101,817wins$79,042
Graduation Rate97.3%wins84.5%
Retention Rate98.6%wins92.5%
Student–Faculty Ratio7:1wins9:1
Total Enrollment7,755wins6,488

Verdict

Based on the data above, Harvard edges out U of Rochester on 10 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

U of Rochester Strengths

  • No clear advantages in available data

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