Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Boston College vs Harvard University

Chestnut Hill, MA · Cambridge, MA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Boston CollegeHarvard University
Acceptance Rate15.7%3.5%
In-State Tuition$67,680$59,076
Out-of-State Tuition$67,680$59,076
Average Net Price$21,178$3,249
Graduation Rate91.0%97.0%

GradFax Analysis

Boston College accepts 15.7% of applicants. Harvard University accepts 3.5%. Boston College's tuition is $67,680. Harvard University's is $59,076. Harvard University is cheaper. Boston College graduates 91% of students in 6 years. Harvard University graduates 97%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Boston College profileHarvard University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Boston College or Harvard University?

Harvard University. It accepts 3.5% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Boston College or Harvard University more affordable?

Harvard University has lower published tuition: $59,076 versus $67,680. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Harvard University: 97% of students finish in 6 years. Boston College is at 91%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Boston College vs Harvard University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax