Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Boston University vs Harvard University

Boston, MA · Cambridge, MA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Boston UniversityHarvard University
Acceptance Rate11.1%3.6%
In-State Tuition$68,102$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition$68,102$61,676
Average Net Price$24,420$17,525
Graduation Rate89.0%98.0%
Total Enrollment37,73730,259
Student-Faculty Ratio107

GradFax Analysis

Boston University accepts 11.1% of applicants. Harvard University accepts 3.6%. Boston University's tuition is $68,102. Harvard University's is $61,676. Harvard University is cheaper. Boston University graduates 89% of students in 6 years. Harvard University graduates 98%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $24,420/year at Boston University and $17,525/year at Harvard University. Harvard University is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Boston University profileHarvard University profile

Common Questions

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

Harvard University. It accepts 3.6% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Boston University or Harvard University more affordable?

Harvard University, on average. After aid, students pay $17,525/year versus $24,420/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Harvard University: 98% of students finish in 6 years. Boston University is at 89%.

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.