College Comparison
Harvard University vs University of Chicago
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Cambridge, MA
Chicago, IL
Total Enrollment
30,259
18,566
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
7,598
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
4.5%
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
$75
Total Applicants
54,008
43,612
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$81,288
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$18,967
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$61,179
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$61,179
Room & Board
$21,190
$20,109
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
47.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$62,300
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$91,885
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. Harvard University is $2,151 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, 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 University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. 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 University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. University of Chicago 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 University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago 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. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.

