Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Harvard
$318,672
4-year total (private)
VS
Northwestern
$333,540
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Harvard = $78,044 | Northwestern = $138,980. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Harvard Top Majors
EconomicsComputer SciencePolitical ScienceMathematicsHistoryNorthwestern Top Majors
EconomicsJournalismEngineeringComputer SciencePsychology
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Harvard or Northwestern harder to get into?+
Harvard is more selective with an acceptance rate of 3.2% compared to 7.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Harvard or Northwestern?+
At sticker price, Harvard costs less over 4 years ($318,672 vs $333,540). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Harvard offers an average of $60,157/year in aid while Northwestern offers $48,640/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Harvard and Northwestern?+
The average SAT score at Harvard is 1550 and at Northwestern it is 1520. 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 Northwestern graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Harvard have a higher average starting salary ($95,500 vs $80,600). 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 Northwestern has 6:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Harvard and Northwestern compare for campus life?+
Harvard is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts (urban setting) with a 5,076-acre campus. Northwestern is in Evanston, Illinois (suburban setting) with 231 acres. Harvard competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Northwestern in NCAA D1.