Harvard University: Is It Worth It?
Cambridge, Massachusetts · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
12.3
Net Price/Year
$19,066
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$101,817
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$14,000
at graduation
Is Harvard University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $101,817 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $19,066 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $76,264.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 0.7 years.
The median graduate leaves with $14,000 in debt, which represents about 14%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
Avg SAT
1553
ACT Midpoint
35
Enrollment
7,601
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
97.5%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
98.3%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
42000.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
Avg Net Price
$19,066
After grants/scholarships
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Harvard University worth the money?
Based on federal data, Harvard University graduates earn a median of $101,817 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $14,000 at graduation. The ROI score is 12.3.
What do Harvard University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates is $99,572 six years after enrollment and $101,817 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Harvard University?
The acceptance rate at Harvard University is 3.6%.
How much debt do Harvard University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Harvard University students is $14,000.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.