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Harvard University and Boston University are both private nonprofit institutions — Harvard University in Cambridge, MA and Boston University in Boston, MA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Cambridge, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 3.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,601
Tuition: $61,676/year
Student-faculty ratio: 7.0:1
Graduation rate: 97.6%
Top programs: Social sciences, Biological sciences, Mathematics
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Cambridge, MA with published program strength in Social sciences and Biological sciences.
Boston, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 11.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 18,248
Tuition: $68,102/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 88.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Boston, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Social sciences.
| Factor | Harvard University | Boston University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 3.6% | 11.1% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1510–1580 |
| 1420–1530 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 34–36 | 32–34 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,601 | 18,248 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $61,676/year | $68,102/year |
| Average net price after aid | $19,066 | $24,402 |
| Graduation rate | 97.6% | 88.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $101,817 | $83,238 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Cambridge, MA | Boston, MA |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Biological sciences, Mathematics | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication |
Harvard University is more selective (3.6% vs 11.1% acceptance rate). Harvard University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,066 vs $24,402). Harvard University reports the higher graduation rate (97.6% vs 88.7%). Boston University is the larger undergraduate campus (18,248 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Harvard University and Boston University
Harvard University has an acceptance rate of 3.6%; Boston University is around 11.1%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Harvard University tuition is $61,676/year. Boston University is $68,102/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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