College Comparison
Harvard University vs RPI: 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
RPI
Troy, NY
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | RPI |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 58.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580wins | 1330–1500 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36wins | 30–34 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $61,884 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $33,139 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817 | $102,051wins |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 83.2% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 88.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1wins | 14:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755wins | 5,909 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out RPI 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
RPI Strengths
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,051
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.