Princeton University vs Harvard University: Which One Should You Choose

Choosing the right university can be hard, especially when comparing two Ivy League members i.e., Princeton University and Harvard University. Both universities offer world-class faculty, exceptional resources, and academic programs, making the choice even more difficult. 

The cost is also almost similar, with Princeton at $59,710 and Harvard at $59,076 per year in terms of tuition. However, there are some differences in their academics and campus life.

This article will look at the key differences to help you pick the right university for abroad education.

Highlights: Princeton vs Harvard

Princeton University vs Harvard University: QS Rankings 2024

The QS World rankings of Princeton University vs Harvard University for the year 2024 are stated below: 

Princeton University vs Harvard University Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate of Princeton University is 6%, whereas at Harvard University, it is 3%.

Princeton University vs Harvard University: Eligibility Criteria 

The requirements to get into each university depend on the student's program. Here are the eligibility criteria for international students: 

Princeton University vs Harvard University for International Students

The eligibility criteria for studying at Princeton University are as follows:

• To be e­ligible, students need a 4-ye­ar degree from an approve­d university, earned be­fore joining Princeton. Some international de­grees may take diffe­rent lengths but usually at least four ye­ars. Shorter programs of under three­ years won't work. All degree­s must be from accredited place­s of learning.
• Submit a graded English paper(O- or A-level coursework), pre­ferably from English or history class, to showcase strong writing skills.
• If English is not your first language and main instruction language in secondary school, submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Acade­mic scores. Exempt if English is your native language­ or you studied for 3+ years where­ English was the main instruction language.
• Prince­ton has a test-optional policy for the next three­ admission cycles (2023-2025)- If you choose to submit scores, use the SAT or ACT. No minimum score­ is required, writing section is optional.

The eligibility criteria for studying at Harvard University are as follows:

• Complete either the Common Application or Coalition Application by Scoir.
• Answer five short-answer questions specific to Harvard College.
• Submit a $85 application fee or request a fee waiver.
• Provide SAT or ACT scores; alternatively, submit AP, IB, GCSE/A-Level, or National Leaving Exam results.
• Optionally, submit AP or other examination results.
• Include School Report with counselor letter and high school transcript.
• Provide two teacher recommendations.
• Submit the midyear school report after the first semester of grades.
• For admitted students, submit the final school report.

Princeton vs Harvard: Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for studying at Princeton University are as follows:

• Submit an official transcript sent directly by your school counselor or school official.
• Complete and submit the School Report (SR) form, which should be filled out by your school counselor or another school official.
• Provide a separate Counselor Recommendation in addition to the School Report.
• Request two teacher recommendations from teachers who have taught you in higher-level courses, such as AP, IB, or A-Levels, in different academic areas.
• If you choose to submit test scores, take the SAT or ACT by the October test date for early action or the December test date for regular decision.
• Princeton does not require SAT Subject Tests, but you can submit them if you have taken them.
• If English is not your native language and your school's primary language of instruction is not English, you must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores. Princeton's TOEFL code is 2672.

The admission requirements for studying at Harvard University are as follows:

• Submit an official high school transcript.
• Provide a Secondary School Report, including a school profile (if available) and a letter of recommendation from your school counselor or another school leader.
• If applying during your senior year, submit a Midyear School Report with your latest grades as soon as they become available.
• For admitted students, a Final School Report and transcript must be submitted by July 1.

Princeton University vs Harvard University: Courses and Fees

The fees of Princeton University vs Harvard University for the 2024-25 session are as follows:

Princeton University vs Harvard University: Scholarships Offered

Scholarships that international students can apply at Princeton University are listed below:

Scholarships that international students can apply at Harvard University are listed below:

Princeton vs Harvard: Which Gives Better ROI

Princeton University, located in New Jersey, has a very good ROI. This considers the average salary of Princeton graduates compared to the cost of attending the university. Princeton graduates earn an average starting salary of $89,144, often going into business and finance.

On the other hand, Harvard University in Massachusetts has an even better ROI. As the oldest university in the US, Harvard is highly selective, with only a 3% acceptance rate. Its graduates command a high average starting salary of $91,700, commonly finding jobs in finance, consulting, and technology.

Studying in USA

Here is the breakdown of cost of living, study, life and culture for studying in USA.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in USA is as follows:

Source: numbeo.com

Cost of Study

The average cost of study in the USA for international students is between $26,290 to $35,800. The cost depends on the type of school (public or private), scholarships and aid offered to international students, and housing and food costs.

Life and Culture

American universities have a great worldwide reputation for diverse cultures and vibrant student life. The country is home to many different ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Asian Americans, Indigenous Americans, and Latin Americans. 
Since the U.S. practices multiculturalism, students can explore different cultures and religions during their studies. Students also get access to top-quality education and research facilities.

Visa and Immigration Requirements

In the US, International stude­nts require these three visas to study in the USA, an F-1 Student Visa, a J Exchange Visa, and an M Student Visa.

Post-Study Work Visa

International students leverage Optional Practical Training (OPT) tied to their F-1 visa. OPT is a work authorization that allows you to gain practical experience related to your field of study after graduation. 

Standard OPT is valid for up to 12 months after graduation, while STEM OPT is for students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math fields. It can extend the standard OPT by an additional 24 months, for a total of 36 months.

Princeton University vs Harvard University: Summary

Princeton University and Harvard University are both elite Ivy League institutions, but they differ in some key ways. Princeton has a smaller student body of around 7,753, while Harvard is larger with 20,050 students. 

Academically, Princeton is known for its strengths in fields like engineering and economics, while Harvard excels in professional programs like law and business.