Is Harvard University worth it?
Cambridge, MA · private-nonprofit
Verdict
Typical students pay $19,066 a year after aid, graduate with $14,000 in federal debt, and earn $99,572 six years after enrolling — an estimated monthly loan payment of $150, with a debt break-even of about 1.4 years.
Net price / year
$19,066
Admission rate
4%
Graduation rate
—
Median debt
$14,000
Earnings (6 yr)
$99,572
Earnings (10 yr)
$101,817
Est. monthly loan payment
$150
Loan-to-income ratio
14%
Debt break-even
1.4 years
How Harvard University compares
FAQ
How much does it cost to attend Harvard University?
The federal average net price after grants and scholarships is $19,066 a year. That figure reflects what a typical student actually pays after grants and scholarships, not the sticker price.
How much debt do Harvard University graduates typically carry?
Students who complete a program at Harvard University leave with a median federal debt of $14,000, based on the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard.
What do Harvard University graduates earn?
Six years after enrolling, former students report median earnings of $99,572, drawn from federal tax records aggregated by the College Scorecard.
What is the graduation rate at Harvard University?
Graduation rate data is not currently published for this school.
Is Harvard University worth the debt?
Based on median debt and 6-year earnings, it would take roughly 1.4 years of 10% income allocation to pay off the typical debt load — compare that against your own expected major and career path before deciding.
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.