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College Comparison

Harvard University vs Southern Methodist University

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Harvard University
#1
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Private
Southern Methodist University
#59
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Cambridge, MA

Dallas, TX

Total Enrollment

30,259

12,116

Undergrad Enrollment

8,844

7,285

Student-Faculty Ratio

7:1

11:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

3.6%

63.4%

Average GPA

4.00

3.66

SAT Range

1510–1580

1340–1490

ACT Range

34–36

30–34

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$85

$60

Total Applicants

54,008

15,245


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$73,849

$74,076

Avg Net Price

$16,816

$41,778

Tuition (In-State)

$52,659

$55,012

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$52,659

$55,012

Room & Board

$21,190

$19,064

% Receiving Aid

56.0%

67.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$68,015

$37,520


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

97.0%

82.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

87.0%

75.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

91.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$101,817

$78,354

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Harvard is in Cambridge, MA

Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX

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Frequently Asked Questions

Harvard University has an acceptance rate of 4%, while Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63%. This means Harvard University is more selective than Southern Methodist University.

The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Harvard University is $24,962 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. 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 Southern Methodist 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.

The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Harvard 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.