Side-by-side comparison

University of California-Berkeley vs Harvard University

University of California-Berkeley and Harvard University are compared below across admissions, cost, rankings, and outcomes. On the metrics both institutions report, Harvard University leads on 8 of 10 comparable fields.

Metric University of California-Berkeley Harvard University
Location Berkeley, US Cambridge, US
Admission rate 11.0% 3.0%
SAT average 1,470 1,530
QS World rank #12 #4
THE World rank #9 #5
Median earnings (10yr) $81,400 $131,000
Annual cost $72,306 $78,200
Total students 45,307 30,391
Founded 1868 1636
Completion rate 92.0% 97.0%

Frequently asked questions

Is University of California-Berkeley harder to get into than Harvard University?

Harvard University has the lower admission rate. University of California-Berkeley: 11.0%. Harvard University: 3.0%.

Which is ranked higher — University of California-Berkeley or Harvard University?

Harvard University is ranked higher in the QS World University Rankings. University of California-Berkeley: #12. Harvard University: #4.

Which is cheaper — University of California-Berkeley or Harvard University?

University of California-Berkeley has the lower cost of attendance. University of California-Berkeley: $72,306. Harvard University: $78,200. Actual cost depends on family income + aid.

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