Harvard University vs Stanford University: Which Should You Choose?
A side-by-side comparison of Harvard University in Cambridge, MA (U.S. News 2026 rank #3) and Stanford University in Stanford, CA (U.S. News 2026 rank #4) — cost, acceptance rate, graduation rate, and outcomes, using verified data.
| Metric | Harvard University | Stanford University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate (Overall) | 3.6% | 3.8% |
| Average Net Price (Federal Aid Recipients) | $19,066 | $13,807 |
| 6-Year Graduation Rate | 98% | 91.6% |
| Median Starting Salary | $92,518 | $89,527 |
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | 7,038 | 7,554 |
| SAT Middle 50% (composite midpoint) | 1545 | 1545 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 7 | 10 |
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