Columbia vs Harvard
How Columbia and Harvard stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Columbia | Harvard | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 4.29% | 4.2% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1510-1570 | 1580-1600 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Required |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | NY | MA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $89,694 | $83,000 |
| Average cost after aid | $24,498 | $18,000 |
| Supplemental essays | 6 | 5 |
- Columbia and Harvard are similarly selective, admitting about 4.29% and 4.2% of applicants.
- After aid, Harvard is usually the cheaper option ($18,000 versus $24,498 per year on average).
- On testing, Columbia is test-optional while Harvard requires SAT or ACT scores.
- Columbia asks for more supplemental writing (6 essays versus 5), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Columbia vs Harvard FAQ
Is Columbia or Harvard harder to get into?
Columbia and Harvard are similarly selective, admitting about 4.29% and 4.2% of applicants.
Is Columbia or Harvard cheaper?
After financial aid, Harvard is usually cheaper, about $18,000 per year on average versus $24,498 at Columbia.
See your real chances at Columbia and Harvard.
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