College Comparison
MIT vs Harvard 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
MIT
Cambridge, MA
School
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | MIT | Harvard |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.7% | 3.5%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580wins | 1500–1580 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $60,156 | $59,076wins |
| Avg Net Price | $19,813 | $16,816wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $143,372wins | $101,817 |
| Graduation Rate | 96.1% | 97.3%wins |
| Retention Rate | 99.0%wins | 98.6% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 7:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 4,571 | 7,755wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out MIT on 5 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.
MIT Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $143,372
- ✓Retention Rate: 99.0%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Harvard Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
- ✓Graduation Rate: 97.3%
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