Oxford vs Harvard University: Choosing between Oxford and Harvard University for studying abroad is a challenging decision faced by many students. Both of these prestigious institutions are globally recognized for their world-class programs, experienced faculty, and a rich academic environment. However, each one has its own unique qualities that might be a better fit depending on what you’re looking for.
Oxford offers personal lessons, while Harvard has a large, diverse campus with many research opportunities. In this blog, we’ll explore the unique qualities of both universities, comparing their academic strengths, campus life, and opportunities, to help you decide which one is the best fit for your study abroad experience.
Table of contents
- Oxford vs Harvard University: Key Highlights Compared
- Oxford vs Harvard: Popular Courses
- Comparing The Cost Of Tuition At Oxford Vs Harvard
- Oxford vs Harvard University: Detailed Admission Process
- Oxford vs Harvard University: Placements and Average Salaries
- Oxford vs Harvard University: Which one is better?
- FAQs
Oxford vs Harvard University: Key Highlights Compared
Oxford and Harvard are two of the most famous universities, known for their academic excellence and global impact. While both have a strong reputation, they also have some differences. To help you compare these iconic institutions, we have provided a detailed table highlighting key differences and similarities between Oxford and Harvard.
| Parameters | Oxford University | Harvard University |
| Establishment Year | 1096 | 1636 |
| QS World University Rankings 2025 | 3rd | 4th |
| Popular Courses | MBA, Architecture, Arts | MBA, Law, Medicine |
| Average Annual Tuition Costs | INR 30L to INR 44.2L (GBP 28,300 to GBP 41,300) | INR 47.3L (USD 56,500) |
| Campus Size | 1,327 acres | 5,457 acres |
| Faculty Members | Approx 14841 | Approx 19639 |
| Accommodation | Offered on-campus | Offered on-campus |
| Scholarships | Offered | Need-based & Merit-based |
| Placement Opportunities | Available | Available |
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Oxford vs Harvard: Popular Courses
Harvard offers over 3,700 courses, while Oxford provides more than 250 courses across its 18 colleges. Both universities have popular courses that attract many students. The MBA is the most popular course at both Harvard and Oxford. Here’s a list of some of the popular courses offered at these universities.
| University | Popular Courses |
| Oxford | African & Middle Eastern Studies Anthropology Art & Design Asian Studies Biomedical Sciences Business & Management Studies Classics English History Law Philosophy Politics |
| Harvard | Accounting & Finance Engineering & Technology MBA Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering Performing Arts Pharmacy and Pharmacology Physics and Astronomy Politics and International Studies Law Medicine Arts & Design Sociology |
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Comparing The Cost Of Tuition At Oxford Vs Harvard
The average tuition fee at Oxford University is about GBP 38,650, but it can vary based on the course, programme, duration, and credits. For Harvard University, the average tuition for undergraduate courses is around USD 60,500, while postgraduate courses cost about USD 52,456. Below, you’ll find a table showing the fees for some popular courses at both Oxford and Harvard.
| Programme | Oxford University Annual Fee (GBP) | Harvard University Annual Fee (USD) |
| M.Sc Advanced Computer Science | 30,330 | 49,700 |
| M.B.A | 65,520 | 48,800 |
| M.B.B.S | 36,800 | – |
| M.Sc Social Data Science | 28,560 | – |
| PhD Computer Science | 28,560 | – |
| M.Sc Law and Finance | 42,120 | – |
| Business Administration | – | 48,800 |
| Science | – | 48,800 |
| Technology | – | 48,200 |
| Economics | – | 49,700 |
| Psychology | – | 49,700 |
| Computer Science | – | 49,700 |
| Environmental Science and Engineering | – | 48,200 |
| Physics | – | 49,700 |
| Digital Media | – | 19,800 |
| Mathematics | – | 49,700 |
Oxford vs Harvard University: Detailed Admission Process
When considering studying at Oxford or Harvard, understanding their admission process is crucial. Both universities have high standards, but each has its own process. Here’s a simple breakdown of the admission process for both Oxford and Harvard.
Oxford University Admission Process:
- Apply via UCAS Application System.
- CBSE board students with A1 grades are acceptable for UG admission.
- Transcripts required for high school or bachelor’s level, depending on admission.
- Standardized test scores:
- ACT/SAT for undergraduate admissions.
- GRE/GMAT for postgraduate admissions.
- English language proficiency tests accepted:
- PTE, TOEFL/TOEFL iBT, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency.
- Interviews may be required for some courses.
- MBA at Oxford (Said College of Business) has a separate application process with specific materials.
Harvard University Admission Process:
- Apply via Common App or Coalition App for undergraduate admissions.
- For postgraduate admissions, apply via department websites.
- High school reports (transcripts) for undergraduate; bachelor’s GPA for postgraduate admissions.
- SAT or ACT scores are now mandatory for undergraduate admissions.
- GRE/GMAT required for master’s courses.
- English language proficiency tests accepted:
- IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) may be required for postgraduate admissions.
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR) are part of the application process.
- Interviews may be required for postgraduate admissions.
Oxford vs Harvard University: Placements and Average Salaries
Both Oxford and Harvard University offer placement opportunities to their enrolled students. As the MBA is one of the most popular courses, the placement rates for MBA graduates are among the highest at both universities. Let’s take a closer look at the recent MBA placement trends in this Oxford vs Harvard comparison.
| Parameters | Harvard University | Oxford University |
| Placements Rate | 86% | 88% |
| Average Salary | USD 120,000 (₹1 Cr) | GBP 83,410 (₹87.42 Lakhs) |
| Median Salary | USD 175,000 (₹1.45 Cr) | GBP 28,000 (₹29.34 Lakhs) |
| Top Industry for Placement | Finance: 33% | Consulting: 31.9% |
| Highest Average Salary | Consulting: USD 190,000 (₹1.58 Cr) | Technology: GBP 89,554 (₹93.86 Lakhs) |
Oxford vs Harvard University: Which one is better?
It cannot be concluded in a single line which is better – Oxford or Harvard. because each university excels in different areas. While Oxford is known for its centuries-old traditions and unique tutorial system, Harvard offers a vast network and cutting-edge research opportunities. Here’s a simple comparison between Oxford and Harvard based on different factors:
- Rankings: Oxford ranks higher globally, but Harvard does better in national rankings. Thus, Oxford wins based on the global rankings here.
- Acceptance Rate: Harvard is more selective with a lower acceptance rate (3.59%), while Oxford has a higher rate (16.8%), so Oxford wins here again.
- Fees & Financial Aid: Oxford is cheaper, but both universities offer good financial support. So, it’s a tie.
- Popular Courses: Oxford focuses more on Humanities, while Harvard has a stronger STEM program. The choice depends on what you’re interested in.
- Placements: Harvard has a higher placement rate, but Oxford graduates earn a higher median salary. So, there’s no clear winner here either.
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FAQs
Both Oxford and Harvard University are prestigious and globally recognized, but the better choice depends on your field of interest. Oxford excels in Humanities, Philosophy, and Social Sciences, while Harvard offers strong programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and business. It ultimately depends on your academic goals and career path.
Oxford is generally more affordable than Harvard, especially for international students. However, both universities provide significant financial aid options.
Harvard has a larger and more diverse student body, with over 20,000 students, compared to Oxford’s 24,000 students, which includes a greater focus on international students.
Both universities provide excellent placement opportunities. Oxford graduates earn higher median salaries, while Harvard offers a higher placement rate (86%) in comparison to Oxford’s 88%.
Oxford University, founded in 1096, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, with a long history of academic excellence. Harvard University, established in 1636, is the oldest higher education institution in the United States but is much younger compared to Oxford.
While both universities are highly selective, Harvard has a much lower acceptance rate (3.59%) compared to Oxford’s 16.8%, making it more competitive to get admission to Harvard. Both universities require strong academic records, but Harvard’s additional focus on standardized tests like the SAT may make it more challenging for some applicants.
Harvard is globally known for its cutting-edge research facilities and vast funding for scientific exploration. It has numerous research centers in various disciplines, especially in medical, technological, and social sciences.
Both Oxford and Harvard provide on-campus housing for students, though accommodation is limited and may vary by course and college. Oxford students usually stay in college dorms or university-managed housing, while Harvard offers a variety of housing options, including residence halls and private accommodations.
Both universities offer scholarships, though their systems differ. Oxford offers merit-based scholarships, while Harvard provides a more extensive need-based financial aid system, ensuring that students from all economic backgrounds can attend.
Oxford has lower tuition fees, ranging between INR 30L to INR 44.2L (GBP 28,300 to GBP 41,300). In contrast, Harvard’s tuition is higher, around INR 47.3L (USD 56,500). However, both institutions provide financial aid options to help cover costs.
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