Schools: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) vs. University of California, Berkeley
Quick Verdict
MIT and UC Berkeley are both world-renowned universities with strengths in research, faculty recognition, and career placement. MIT stands out with its exceptionally low student-to-faculty ratio and higher financial aid packages, but also comes with a higher tuition cost (though tuition-free for eligible families starting Fall 2025). UC Berkeley offers a more accessible tuition for in-state students and a vibrant location in the San Francisco Bay Area. The choice depends on individual priorities, financial considerations, and preferred campus environment.
- MIT has a significantly lower acceptance rate (4-5%) compared to UC Berkeley (11-12%).
- MIT boasts a much lower student-to-faculty ratio (3:1) than UC Berkeley (19:1 or 20:1).
- MIT's tuition is considerably higher than UC Berkeley's, especially for out-of-state students. However, MIT offers tuition-free education for families with incomes under $200,000 starting in Fall 2025.
- Both universities are highly ranked globally and have strong research outputs, but MIT generally holds a higher position in global rankings.
- Both universities offer strong programs in Engineering, Computer Science, and Business.
- MIT provides a higher median need-based scholarship compared to the average financial aid package for freshmen at UC Berkeley.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | University of California, Berkeley |
|---|
| Acceptance Rate | — | — |
| Tuition and Fees (2024-2025) | — | — |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | — | — |
| Research Output | — | — |
| Faculty Awards and Recognition | — | — |
| Global Ranking | — | — |
| Career Placement Rate | — | — |
| Internship Opportunities | — | — |
| Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives | — | — |
| Campus Resources and Facilities | — | — |
| Location and Campus Environment | — | — |
| Specific Program Strengths | — | — |
| Average Financial Aid Package (Freshmen) | — | — |
| Average Starting Salary (Undergraduates) | — | — |
Overall Comparison
MIT: #1 QS World Ranking, 4.5% Acceptance Rate, 3:1 Student-Faculty Ratio. UC Berkeley: 11-12% Acceptance Rate, In-state Tuition $16,347, Out-of-state Tuition $50,547.
Pros and Cons
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Pros:
- High career placement rate
- Low student-to-faculty ratio
- Leading research university
- Globally recognized and highly ranked
- Guaranteed housing for all four years for undergraduates
- Comprehensive psychological services and mental health support
- Vast resources for students interested in entrepreneurship
Cons:
- No major disadvantages reported.
University of California, Berkeley
Pros:
- High research output
- Recognized faculty with Nobel laureates
- Strong global rankings
- Good career placement rate for MBA graduates
- Internship opportunities in the San Francisco Bay Area
- Diversity and inclusion initiatives
- Extensive campus resources and facilities
- Located in a vibrant area
- Strong programs in Computer Science, Engineering, and Business
Cons:
- No major disadvantages reported.
User Experiences and Feedback
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
What Users Love- Strong sense of community
- Collaborative environment
- Ample opportunities to work closely with professors
- Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)
- High percentage of graduating seniors conduct research
- Comprehensive psychological services available
- Affirming home for international, undocumented, and trans* students
Common Complaints- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception- Median need-based MIT Scholarship: $66,663
- Average annual price paid by a student receiving financial aid (2021-2022): $19,599
- Average starting salary for MIT undergraduates: $126,438
- MIT graduates typically earn 30-40% higher wages than the national average
- Average package ranges from $120,000 to $160,000 per year
University of California, Berkeley
What Users Love- Plentiful undergraduate research opportunities through URAP
- Berkeley Career Engagement assists in finding internships
- Vibrant campus culture with a legacy of civil rights activism
- Mental health support available through the Tang Center
Common Complaints- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception- Average financial aid package for freshmen: $19,663
- Average aid package: $31,559
- Starting salaries for software engineers around $118,279
- Starting salaries for data analysts around $79,542
- Starting salaries for data scientists around $117,970
- MBA graduates had a median base salary of $160,000