Head-to-head · 2026
Harvard University vs Yale University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 6 wins for Harvard University, 1 for Yale University — Harvard University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Harvard University | Yale University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 13.35 ✓ | 10.57 |
| Avg net price | $19,066 ✓ | $23,777 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $101,817 ✓ | $100,533 |
| Acceptance rate | 3.7% ✓ | 3.9% |
| Graduation rate | 97.6% ✓ | 95.7% |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $12,975 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 7,601 | 6,758 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1553 ✓ | 1534 |
| Wins | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Yale University costs $4,711 more per year than Harvard University ($23,777 vs $19,066). Harvard University graduates report $1,284 higher median earnings after ten years ($101,817 vs $100,533). On EduGradify's model that puts Harvard University ahead on projected ROI (13.35 vs 10.57, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Harvard University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Harvard University is highly competitive at 3.7% acceptance versus 3.9% (highly competitive) at Yale University.
Frequently asked
Harvard University vs Yale University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Harvard University or Yale University the better value?
Harvard University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (13.35 vs 10.57), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Harvard University is cheaper — average net price $19,066 per year vs $23,777 at Yale University. The annual difference of $4,711 adds up to about $18,844 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Harvard University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $101,817 vs $100,533 at Yale University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,284.
Which school is harder to get into?
Harvard University is more selective at 3.7% acceptance vs 3.9% at Yale University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Harvard University reports a A value grade; Yale University reports B.