Head-to-head · 2026
Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs Stanford University
Compare average net price ($20,111 at Massachusetts Institute of Technology; $13,807 at Stanford University), ROI score (17.82 vs 22.47), ten-year median earnings ($143,372 vs $124,080), and admissions selectivity (4.6% acceptance at Massachusetts Institute of Technology; 3.6% at Stanford University) using federal College Scorecard data. Stanford University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Stanford University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Stanford University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 17.82 | 22.47 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $20,111 | $13,807 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $143,372 ✓ | $124,080 |
| Acceptance rate | 4.6% | 3.6% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 96.4% ✓ | 91.9% |
| Median debt | $14,768 | $12,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 4,535 | 7,554 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1560 ✓ | 1553 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Massachusetts Institute of Technology costs $6,304 more per year than Stanford University ($20,111 vs $13,807). Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates report $19,292 higher median earnings after ten years ($143,372 vs $124,080). On EduGradify's model that puts Stanford University ahead on projected ROI (22.47 vs 17.82, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Stanford University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Massachusetts Institute of Technology is highly competitive at 4.6% acceptance versus 3.6% (highly competitive) at Stanford University.
Frequently asked
Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs Stanford University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Massachusetts Institute of Technology or Stanford University the better value?
Stanford University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (22.47 vs 17.82), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Stanford University is cheaper — average net price $13,807 per year vs $20,111 at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The annual difference of $6,304 adds up to about $25,216 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $143,372 vs $124,080 at Stanford University. The annual gap in the federal data is $19,292.
Which school is harder to get into?
Stanford University is more selective at 3.6% acceptance vs 4.6% at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
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. Massachusetts Institute of Technology reports a A+ value grade; Stanford University reports A+.