College Comparison
Harvard University vs Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Total Enrollment
30,259
9,728
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
6,577
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
48.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.74
SAT Range
1510–1580
1350–1490
ACT Range
34–36
31–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$70
Total Applicants
54,008
18,970
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$76,773
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$50,959
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$56,880
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$56,880
Room & Board
$21,190
$19,893
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
71.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$28,368
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
85.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$109,183
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $50,959 at Santa Clara University. Harvard University is $34,143 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Santa Clara University, the typical SAT range is 1350-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 90%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Harvard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Santa Clara University has a ratio of 11:1. Harvard 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 Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive aid with an average grant of $28,368.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $109,183 for Santa Clara University graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara 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. Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting.

