Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Harvard
$318,672
4-year total (private)
VS
MIT
$307,320
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Harvard = $78,044 | MIT = $119,760. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Harvard Top Majors
EconomicsComputer SciencePolitical ScienceMathematicsHistoryMIT Top Majors
Computer ScienceEngineeringMathematicsPhysicsBiology
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Harvard or MIT harder to get into?+
Harvard is more selective with an acceptance rate of 3.2% compared to 3.9%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Harvard or MIT?+
At sticker price, MIT costs less over 4 years ($307,320 vs $318,672). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Harvard offers an average of $60,157/year in aid while MIT offers $46,890/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Harvard and MIT?+
The average SAT score at Harvard is 1550 and at MIT it is 1556. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do Harvard or MIT graduates earn more?+
Graduates of MIT have a higher average starting salary ($104,800 vs $95,500). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
Harvard has a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio while MIT has 3:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Harvard and MIT compare for campus life?+
Harvard is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts (urban setting) with a 5,076-acre campus. MIT is in Cambridge, Massachusetts (urban setting) with 168 acres. Harvard competes in NCAA D1 athletics and MIT in NCAA D3.