College Comparison
Boston 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
Chestnut Hill, MA
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
15,432
30,259
Undergrad Enrollment
10,314
8,844
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
16.4%
3.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1440–1540
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$85
Total Applicants
35,037
54,008
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,866
$73,849
Avg Net Price
$39,866
$16,816
Tuition (In-State)
$62,950
$52,659
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,950
$52,659
Room & Board
$18,916
$21,190
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,971
$68,015
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$101,817
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston College is $39,866 per year, compared to $16,816 at Harvard University. Harvard University is $23,050 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston College typically score between 1440-1540 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.
Boston College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Harvard University has a ratio of 7:1. Harvard University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,971. At Harvard University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,015.
The median earnings for Boston College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $103,937, compared to $101,817 for Harvard University graduates. Graduates from Boston College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston College is located in Chestnut Hill, MA in a city: small setting. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

