College Comparison
Harvard University vs UC Irvine: 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
UC Irvine
Irvine, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | UC Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 25.6% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076 | $45,014wins |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816 | $12,840wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817wins | $80,735 |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 86.0% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 93.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755 | 29,494wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out UC Irvine on 6 of 9 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $101,817
- ✓Graduation Rate: 97.3%
UC Irvine Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,014
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,840
- ✓Total Enrollment: 29,494
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