Side-by-side comparison

Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs Harvard University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University are compared below across admissions, cost, rankings, and outcomes. On the metrics both institutions report, Harvard University leads on 6 of 9 comparable fields.

Metric Massachusetts Institute of Technology Harvard University
Location Cambridge, US Cambridge, US
Admission rate 4.0% 3.0%
SAT average 1,540 1,530
QS World rank #1 #4
THE World rank #2 #5
Median earnings (10yr) $124,200 $131,000
Annual cost $79,850 $78,200
Total students 11,858 30,391
Founded 1861 1636
Completion rate 94.0% 97.0%

Frequently asked questions

Is Massachusetts Institute of Technology harder to get into than Harvard University?

Harvard University has the lower admission rate. Massachusetts Institute of Technology: 4.0%. Harvard University: 3.0%.

Which is ranked higher — Massachusetts Institute of Technology or Harvard University?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is ranked higher in the QS World University Rankings. Massachusetts Institute of Technology: #1. Harvard University: #4.

Which is cheaper — Massachusetts Institute of Technology or Harvard University?

Harvard University has the lower cost of attendance. Massachusetts Institute of Technology: $79,850. Harvard University: $78,200. Actual cost depends on family income + aid.

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