Both MIT and Harvard are exceptional universities, each with its unique strengths. MIT excels in STEM fields with a strong emphasis on research and collaboration, while Harvard offers a broader academic experience with a larger endowment and campus. The choice between the two depends on individual academic interests, career goals, and preferred campus culture.
| Attribute | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Harvard University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | — | 3-4% (Class of 2028: 3.59%) |
| Tuition and Fees | — | $59,076 (2023-2024 academic year), Total cost of attendance: around $86,794 per year (2023-2024), approximately $86,926 per year (2025-2026) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | — | 7:1 |
| Research Output | — | Extensive research activities across various disciplines |
| Endowment Size | — | $53.2 billion (as of June 30, 2024) |
| Number of Undergraduate Students | — | 5,699 to 7,110 |
| Number of Graduate Students | — | 13,331 to 14,168 |
| Average SAT/ACT Scores | — | SAT: 1550 (range 1500-1580), ACT: 35 (range 34-36) |
| Graduation Rate | — | 97-98% |
| Job Placement Rate | — | 77% (one source), 95% (graduate students), Average starting salary for MBA graduates: $175,000 |
| Campus Size | — | Main campus: 209 acres (85 ha), Total campus size: approximately 5,076 acres |
| Student Life and Activities | — | Over 400 student organizations |
| Pros | — | Rigorous academic programs, Interdisciplinary learning and research opportunities for undergraduates, Accessible professors due to low student-faculty ratio, Extensive career services and resources, High job placement rate, High starting salaries for graduates, Rich academic atmosphere, Focus on academic excellence, Diverse student body |
| Cons | — | Students are expected to work hard, Social scene can vary |
| User Feedback (Positive) | — | Prepares students well for their future careers |
| User Feedback (Negative) | — | Not available |