College Comparison
Harvard University vs Princeton University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Cambridge, MA
Princeton, NJ
Total Enrollment
30,259
9,137
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
5,813
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
4.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1510–1580
1510–1580
ACT Range
34–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$70
Total Applicants
54,008
40,468
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$77,660
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$10,555
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$57,410
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$57,410
Room & Board
$21,190
$20,250
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$68,727
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
98.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$110,066
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Princeton is in Princeton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $10,555 at Princeton University. Princeton University is $6,261 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Princeton University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while Princeton University has a graduation rate of 98%. Princeton University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Harvard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Princeton University has a ratio of 5:1. Princeton University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Harvard University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,015. At Princeton University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,727.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $110,066 for Princeton University graduates. Graduates from Princeton University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. Princeton University is located in Princeton, NJ in a city: small setting.

