Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Harvard University vs Yale University

Cambridge, MA · New Haven, CT · Source: IPEDS federal database

Harvard UniversityYale University
Acceptance Rate3.5%4.5%
In-State Tuition$59,076$64,700
Out-of-State Tuition$59,076$64,700
Average Net Price$3,249$3,854
Graduation Rate97.0%96.0%

GradFax Analysis

Harvard University accepts 3.5% of applicants. Yale University accepts 4.5%. Harvard University's tuition is $59,076. Yale University's is $64,700. Harvard University is cheaper. Six-year graduation rates are close: 97% at Harvard University, 96% at Yale University.

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 profileYale University profile

Common Questions

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

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

Source: IPEDS

Is Harvard University or Yale University more affordable?

Harvard University has lower published tuition: $59,076 versus $64,700. 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%; Yale University is at 96%.

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 Yale University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax