College Comparison
Bowdoin 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
Brunswick, ME
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
1,881
30,259
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
8,844
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
3.6%
Average GPA
3.93
4.00
SAT Range
1470–1550
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$85
Total Applicants
13,265
54,008
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$73,849
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$16,816
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$52,659
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$52,659
Room & Board
$18,488
$21,190
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$68,015
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$101,817
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $16,816 at Harvard University. Harvard University is $3,970 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 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.
Bowdoin 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.
Bowdoin College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, 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 Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,872. At Harvard University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,015.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, 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.
Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

