College Comparison
Colby 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
Waterville, ME
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
2,412
30,259
Undergrad Enrollment
2,412
8,844
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
3.6%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1460–1550
1510–1580
ACT Range
32–34
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$85
Total Applicants
19,187
54,008
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,730
$73,849
Avg Net Price
$23,939
$16,816
Tuition (In-State)
$60,840
$52,659
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,840
$52,659
Room & Board
$17,890
$21,190
% Receiving Aid
45.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$69,201
$68,015
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$101,817
More Comparisons
Compare Colby with...
View Colby profile →
Compare Harvard with...
View Harvard profile →
Explore by Location
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colby College is $23,939 per year, compared to $16,816 at Harvard University. Harvard University is $7,123 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colby College typically score between 1460-1550 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.
Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%, while Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colby 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 Colby College, 45% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $69,201. At Harvard University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,015.
The median earnings for Colby College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,490, 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.
Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

