College Comparison
Amherst College vs Harvard University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
1,914
30,259
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
8,844
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
3.6%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1580
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$85
Total Applicants
13,743
54,008
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$73,849
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$16,816
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$52,659
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$52,659
Room & Board
$18,390
$21,190
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$68,015
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$101,817
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $16,816 at Harvard University. Harvard University is $1,430 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Harvard University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Harvard University has a ratio of 7:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Harvard University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,015.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $101,817 for Harvard University graduates. Graduates from Harvard University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

