College Comparison
Harvard University vs Yale 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
Yale University
New Haven, CT
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | Yale |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 4.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1500–1580 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36wins | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $64,700 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $27,818 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817wins | $100,533 |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 96.3% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6% | 99.0%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755wins | 6,811 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Yale on 7 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%
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–36
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
Yale Strengths
- ✓Retention Rate: 99.0%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 6:1
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