Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Harvard University vs Williams College

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

Harvard UniversityWilliams College
Acceptance Rate3.5%10.0%
In-State Tuition$59,076$64,860
Out-of-State Tuition$59,076$64,860
Average Net Price$3,249$1,816
Graduation Rate97.0%97.0%

GradFax Analysis

Harvard University accepts 3.5% of applicants. Williams College accepts 10.0%. Harvard University's tuition is $59,076. Williams College's is $64,860. Harvard University is cheaper. Six-year graduation rates are close: 97% at Harvard University, 97% at Williams College.

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 →Harvard University profileWilliams College profile

Common Questions

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

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

Source: IPEDS

Is Harvard University or Williams College more affordable?

Harvard University has lower published tuition: $59,076 versus $64,860. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Nearly the same. Harvard University is at 97%; Williams College is at 97%.

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.

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