Haverford College vs Harvard

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences in size and campus environment between Haverford College and Harvard University?

  Haverford College is significantly smaller than Harvard University. Haverford has a student body of around 1,400 undergraduates, fostering a close-knit community where students often know each other. Harvard, with its undergraduate population of approximately 7,000, offers a much larger and more diverse environment. Harvard's campus is expansive, located in a bustling urban setting, while Haverford's campus is more intimate and residential, providing a more secluded and focused academic atmosphere.

• How do the academic approaches and curriculum structures differ at Haverford and Harvard?

  Haverford College emphasizes a strong liberal arts education with a focus on interdisciplinary study and close faculty-student interaction. The curriculum encourages independent research and critical thinking. Harvard also offers a strong liberal arts foundation, but with a broader range of academic departments and specialized programs. Harvard provides more flexibility in course selection and a wider array of research opportunities, including access to world-renowned faculty and resources. Both institutions offer rigorous academics, but Haverford's approach is often perceived as more personalized, while Harvard provides a greater breadth of options.

• What are the key differences in the social and extracurricular experiences at Haverford and Harvard?

  Haverford's smaller size contributes to a strong sense of community and a more intimate social environment. Extracurricular activities are plentiful, but often centered around the campus itself. Harvard offers a vast array of extracurricular options, including numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities, reflecting its larger and more diverse student body. The social scene at Harvard is more varied, with opportunities for engagement both on and off campus, including access to the city of Boston.

• How does the cost of attendance and financial aid compare between Haverford and Harvard?

  Both Haverford and Harvard are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. Both institutions offer generous financial aid packages, including grants and scholarships. However, the actual cost of attendance can vary depending on individual circumstances. It's recommended to review the financial aid information on each college's website and use their net price calculators to estimate the out-of-pocket expenses.

• What are the typical career outcomes and postgraduate opportunities for graduates of Haverford and Harvard?

  Graduates from both Haverford and Harvard are highly sought after by employers and graduate programs. Harvard graduates have access to a vast alumni network and a wide range of career opportunities in various fields, including business, law, medicine, and academia. Haverford graduates also achieve success in diverse fields, often pursuing careers in academia, research, non-profit organizations, and the arts. Both institutions provide strong career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and graduate school applications. Harvard's larger network may provide more immediate access to certain industries, while Haverford's alumni network is known for its strong sense of community and willingness to help fellow alumni.

• How does the application process differ between Haverford and Harvard?

  Both Haverford and Harvard require the Common Application. The application process for both is highly competitive, requiring strong academic records, extracurricular involvement, and compelling essays. Harvard's application process may be slightly more selective due to the larger applicant pool. Both colleges consider a holistic review of each applicant, evaluating academic achievements, personal qualities, and potential contributions to the campus community. It's important to research each college's specific requirements and deadlines.

• What are the key strengths of Haverford College?

  Haverford College's strengths include its intimate campus environment, strong sense of community, emphasis on undergraduate research, close faculty-student relationships, and commitment to social justice and ethical leadership. It offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary study.

• What are the key strengths of Harvard University?

  Harvard University's strengths include its global reputation, vast resources, renowned faculty, extensive research opportunities, diverse student body, and wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. It offers unparalleled access to opportunities in various fields and a powerful alumni network.

• Which college is a better fit for me: Haverford or Harvard?

  The best fit depends on your individual preferences and goals. If you thrive in a close-knit community, value personalized attention from faculty, and prefer a more intimate campus environment, Haverford might be a better choice. If you seek a broader range of academic and extracurricular options, a more diverse student body, and access to extensive resources and a global network, Harvard might be a better fit. Consider visiting both campuses, if possible, and talking to current students to get a better sense of the culture and environment.