Both Harvard University and the University of Cambridge are academic titans in global education. Harvard, founded in 1636, is the oldest institution in the United States. On the other hand, the University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities worldwide. Choosing between these epitomes of brilliance for your study plans can be daunting. In this blog, we shall compare the legacies of excellence of both these universities so you make the right choice. Read through.
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Harvard University vs University of Cambridge: Overview
The following overview highlights the differences between Harvard University and the University of Cambridge regarding their overall rankings, subject-wise rankings, programs, acceptance rates, exam scores, and application requirements:
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Harvard University is renowned for its excellence in a wide array of fields. It excels in engineering, arts and humanities, natural sciences, social sciences and management, medicine, and law.
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Its prestigious reputation and ground-breaking research, along with its influential alums, contribute to its status as a global leader in higher education, shaping the future of academia, business, and society.
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The University of Cambridge is celebrated for its exceptional academic contributions to various disciplines. It stands out notably in natural sciences, arts and humanities, social sciences and management, medicine, and law.
Harvard University |
University of Cambridge |
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Founded |
1636 |
1209 |
Overall Ranking |
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Subject Strength |
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Programs |
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Acceptance Rate |
3.59 % |
18% |
Exam Scores |
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Application Requirements |
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Location
Harvard University
Harvard University is situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. Its main campus spans over 200 acres along the Charles River. The university’s location offers easy access to nearby Boston's vibrant cultural and intellectual scene. The students have opportunities for exploration, collaboration, and engagement with diverse communities.
University of Cambridge
Cambridge is located in Cambridgeshire, England. It is situated 50 miles north of London. Cambridgeshire boasts a rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and iconic architecture. The University dominates the city space with its majestic colleges. The river Cam meanders through the heart of the city, adding to the city’s charm and allure.
Academics
Harvard University
Harvard University offers a wide range of subjects in various fields, including but not limited to:
- Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Humanities
- Medicine
- Law
- Business
Some unique and famous subjects at Harvard University include:
- Applied Mathematics
- Biomedical Engineering
- African and African American Studies
- Environmental Science and Public Policy
- Visual and Environmental Studies
Harvard University provides a comprehensive and rigorous academic experience across various disciplines. They prepare students to become better field leaders and make meaningful societal contributions.
University of Cambridge
Cambridge maintains a rich academic heritage offering a wide range of subjects across various disciplines, such as:
- Humanities
- Sciences
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Medicine
- Law
Cambridge is particularly renowned for its literature, mathematics, physics, history, and economics programs, which attract students worldwide due to its rigorous intellectual environment and school opportunities. Cambridge also offers some distinctive and prestigious programs such as:
- Cambridge Science and Policy Exchange (CSaP)
- Cambridge Centre for Alternaitve Finance (CCAF)
- Cavendish Laboratory for Physics Research
Read also: How Much Does The Harvard MBA Cost In 2024?
Campuses and B-Schools
We have listed down the list of various schools that are established at these universities:
Harvard University |
University of Cambridge |
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Campuses and B-Schools |
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Read more: How To Get Into Cambridge University From India: 2024
Student Life
Harvard University
Harvard has a student body of approximately 23,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The student organization offers many extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations catering to various interests. The Harvard Undergraduate Council (UC) represents the undergraduate students. The university has a world-class library system. One such organization is Harvard College Democrats and Republicans, where students engage in discussions, debates, and activism surrounding political issues and elections.
University of Cambridge
Cambridge fosters a diverse and inclusive community of 20,000, including undergraduates and postgraduates. Students are engaged in a wide range of student activities catering to various interests and passions. The Cambridge University Students’ Union (CUSU) serves as the students' central representation body.
One such organization is the Cambridge University Science Fiction Society (CUSFS). This is a student-run organization.
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Cost of Attendance
The cost of studying at both universities has been listed below:
Harvard University |
University of Cambridge |
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Cost to Study |
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Placement (Average Package)
We have listed The average placement packages for some of the professions below:
Harvard University |
University of Cambridge |
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Placement (Average Package) |
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Read also: Top 15 MBA Colleges in the UK for International Students
From the Desk of Yocket
Both Harvard and Cambridge have stood as pillars of academic excellence. They have their unique strengths and legacies. Whether it is the historic charm of Cambridge or the vibrant cultural scenes in Harvad, students have ample opportunities. They have unparalleled opportunities for academic growth, personal development, and global impact. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to individual preference.
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