Harvard University
Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's degrees · City
Overall Grade
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About Harvard University
Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1636, and named Harvard College in 1639 in honor of its first benefactor, Puritan clergyman John Harvard, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Its influence, wealth, and rankings have made it one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Harvard was founded and authorized by the Massachusetts General Court, the governing legislature of colonial-era Massachusetts Bay Colony. While never formally affiliated with any Protestant denomination, Harvard trained Congregational clergy until its curriculum and student body were gradually secularized in the 18th century. In 1780, the Constitution of Massachusetts referred to it as a university, and a new medical school established in 1782 was named the Medical Institution of Harvard University; but this was a new name, not a new foundation. Harvard College soon became the name of the university's undergraduate division. By the 19th century, Harvard had emerged as the most prominent academic and cultural institution among the Boston elite. Following the American Civil War, under Harvard
Excerpt from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA.
4%
Acceptance
$19,066
Net price
7,601
Enrollment
98%
Grad rate
Report Card
Academics
Graduation & retention rates
Value
Earnings vs. cost of attendance
Career Outcomes
Graduate earnings after 10 years
Affordability
Average net price after aid
Selectivity
How hard it is to get in
Diversity
Racial & ethnic balance of students
Grades are computed from official U.S. Department of Education metrics (graduation, cost, earnings, selectivity and student diversity).
Admissions
4%
Acceptance rate
1,553
SAT average
35
ACT midpoint
Bars show the middle 50% (25th–75th percentile) of admitted students.
Cost & Financial Aid
$19,066
Average net price
$61,676
In-state tuition
$61,676
Out-of-state tuition
$21,190
Room & board
$1,000
Books & supplies
$85,540
Total cost of attendance
16%
Students receiving Pell grants
4%
Students with federal loans
$14,000
Median student debt
Average net price by family income
Net price is the average annual cost after grants and scholarships for federally-aided students.
Popular Majors
After Graduation
$101,817
Median earnings (10 yrs)
$99,572
Median earnings (6 yrs)
98%
Graduation rate
98%
Retention rate
91%
Earn more than a HS grad
$51,780
Instructional spend / student
Student Body
7,601
Total enrollment
6%
Part-time
22
Avg. age at entry
26%
First-generation
Gender balance
Race & ethnicity
Harvard University FAQ
Is Harvard University a public or private school?
Harvard University is a private nonprofit institution located in Cambridge, MA.
What is the acceptance rate at Harvard University?
Harvard University has an acceptance rate of 4%, based on the latest U.S. Department of Education data.
How much does Harvard University cost?
The average annual net price at Harvard University is $19,066 — the typical cost after grants and scholarships for federally-aided students. Published tuition is $61,676.
What is the graduation rate at Harvard University?
About 98% of students at Harvard University complete their degree, according to federal completion data.
How much do Harvard University graduates earn?
Ten years after enrolling, Harvard University students earn a median of $101,817 per year.
What SAT or ACT scores do you need for Harvard University?
Admitted students at Harvard University have an average SAT score of 1,553 and an ACT midpoint of 35. Requirements vary, so check the school's admissions office for the latest.
How many students attend Harvard University?
Harvard University enrolls about 7,601 students.
Campus
Campus photo via Wikimedia Commons — chensiyuan · CC BY-SA 4.0. Additional images are representative.
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