College Comparison
MIT vs Stanford 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
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | MIT | Stanford |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.7% | 3.9%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580 | 1510–1580 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $60,156wins | $62,484 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,813 | $12,136wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $143,372wins | $124,080 |
| Graduation Rate | 96.1%wins | 92.8% |
| Retention Rate | 99.0%wins | 97.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 4,571 | 7,841wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, MIT edges out Stanford on 5 of 8 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
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $60,156
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $143,372
- ✓Graduation Rate: 96.1%
- ✓Retention Rate: 99.0%
Stanford Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.9%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,136
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,841
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