Built by MIT Lincoln Laboratory engineers, Berkeley, University of California admissions officers, and Ivy League counselors. Proud partner of The Haq Foundation.
AdmissionsOS

Harvard University vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

Harvard University Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 3.6% 4.5%
SAT range (mid 50%) 1,510-1,580 1,520-1,580
ACT range (mid 50%) 34-36 34-36
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $19,066 $20,111
Sticker cost of attendance $85,540 $82,730
Graduation rate 98% 96%
Retention rate 98% 99%
Undergraduates 7,601 4,535
Student-faculty ratio 7:1 3:1
Setting Cambridge, MA Cambridge, MA
Type Private nonprofit Private nonprofit
Application fee $90 n/a
Test policy Required n/a

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.

Common questions

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

Harvard University is more selective, with a 3.6% acceptance rate versus 4.5% at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

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

Harvard University has the lower average net price ($19,066 versus $20,111). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.