MIT vs Harvard: Which One to Choose & Why

The MIT vs Harvard debate is an interesting one, since both institutions are among the best in the US. So, which one should you choose to study abroad? The study programs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) cost approximately $61,900 annually, while the average annual tuition fee at Harvard University is around $56,550. 

Still confused about where to pursue your higher education abroad? Here’s a comparison of these two institutions based on multiple aspects. 

MIT vs Harvard: Key Highlights 

Source: Official University Websites

MIT vs Harvard: Rankings 

Here’s looking at the MIT vs Harvard comparison from the perspective of the latest QS Rankings 2024. 

MIT vs Harvard: Acceptance Rate 

According to the US News & World Report, Harvard University has an acceptance rate of just 3%, while the MIT website reports its acceptance rate as 4.8%. 

MIT vs Harvard: Eligibility Criteria 

The eligibility criteria may vary across both institutions depending on your course choice. Let us first take a look at the common eligibility criteria for first-year (undergraduate) students. These include:

• Secondary school completion from a recognized board
• Relevant ACT/SAT scores
• English language proficiency 

MIT vs Harvard for International Students 

Here are some key points of studying at MIT for international students: 

• MIT considers any student without United States citizenship as international, irrespective of where they stay or attended school. 
• International students are advised to apply for MIT courses at the beginning of their high school final year. 
• Only students accepted into MIT need to furnish their final grades.
• The average age of applicants for undergraduate programs is 17-19 years.
• Students will have to showcase a minimum competence level in the study field they choose to continue at the institution.
• ACT/SAT may be required for prospective first-year students (ACT writing section and SAT optional essay are not required. Both the paper and digital SAT are accepted).
• English proficiency examinations are recommended for non-native English speakers.

Here are some key points of studying at Harvard for international students: 

• Applications are accepted from across the world.
• First-year candidates should complete the Common Application or Coalition Application process while offering supplementary materials.
• The admission and financial aid procedures are the same for native Americans and international aspirants.
• While English language proficiency examinations are not mandatory, they are recommended for non-native speakers.
• There are no quotas or limits for international students at the institution.
• International admissions mean those applying from schools outside the United States.
• Standardized tests like SAT/ACT are also required depending on the chosen course.

Admission Requirements for Harvard vs MIT

Here are the requirements for undergraduate applicants at both institutions. 

MIT vs Harvard: Courses, Fees, Scholarships 

Here is a comparison of the courses, fees, and scholarships at MIT and Harvard University. 

Scholarships Accepted by MIT and Harvard

Here are some external scholarships accepted by both institutions alongside the respective university scholarships. 

• KC Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies Abroad
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
• Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program 
• CollegeBoard BigFuture Scholarships
• IEFA Monthly Scholarships for International Students 

MIT vs Harvard: Which Has Better ROI

Studying at MIT can generate a rewarding return on investment in terms of average starting salaries. According to the university’s data, 86% of its students graduate without debt, while those borrowing have graduation debt which is significantly lower than the national average. 

For instance, graduates of the class of 2023 had an average debt of $26,195. Conversely, the average starting salary for MIT bachelor’s degree recipients entering positions in the industry is approximately $126,841 as of 2023. 

At Harvard University, the median debt at the time of graduation is approximately $12,665, while the average starting salary is around $84,918, leaving students in a favorable position to clear off debts, similar to MIT. 

Comparison Between MIT vs Harvard University 

Cost of Living 

The average annual living costs are the following at both universities: 

Source: Official University Websites

Cost of Study 

MIT charges approximately $61,900 per year in tuition fees, while Harvard University charges around $56,550 annually in tuition fees. 

Life and Culture

At Harvard University, students can enjoy staying in upper-level houses and first-year dormitories that offer food and opportunities to build lifelong friendships. There are 500+ student organizations on campus for everything from drama and athletics to outings, artistic pursuits, and more. 

80% of students at the institution also take part in athletics, while the institution also offers numerous health, well-being, and fitness services in addition to ensuring a more inclusive and diverse environment. 

MIT offers a riverside campus of 168 acres with 500+ student organizations, close to 40 independent living and Greek-letter groups, a highly diverse and inclusive campus with chaplains for 20+ faiths/traditions, and tons of extracurricular activities ranging from sports and music to dance, and more. 

Student residence halls double up as recreational zones with dining halls, vending hubs, eateries, entertainment options, and more. There are 33 varsity sports choices, along with numerous health and well-being services and initiatives. 

Visa and Immigration Requirements

International applicants require an ‘F’ category student visa. They must complete the online nonimmigrant visa application form or DS-160 and upload their photographs. The next step is scheduling an interview with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. 

Student visas may be issued up to 365 days before the starting date for a course, although recipients can only enter the country up to 30 days before this date. They must pay the non-refundable visa application fee and prepare documents for the interview. 

These include the passport, application form confirmation page and fee payment receipt, photograph, certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant or F-1 student status for academic and language students, and additional documents like transcripts and academic documents, standardized test scores, proof of intention to depart upon finishing studies, and proof of funds. 

The interview is the final stage of the process, where the visa officer will determine whether the student is eligible to enter the country. 

Post-Study Work Visa

International students are otherwise required to leave the country within 60 days after the concluding date of their study programs, which includes authorized practical training. 

You can file for an I-539 application to request an extension of your stay, including a copy of the Form I-20 and I-94. The extension length is a year. It may extend further depending on your training/employment in  STEM.

MIT vs Harvard: Conclusion

So, which one should you pick after closely examining the MIT vs Harvard debate? Both are reputed institutions that are among the best in the world, offering top-notch infrastructure, faculty, educational quality, and fabulous professional opportunities and recognition. 

Choose the one whose program and intakes best suit you. Compare fees, living costs, course curricula, and other admissions criteria to determine your final choice.