Princeton and Harvard, two of the most prestigious universities in the world, are often compared and contrasted. Which one is better? Which one is right for you?

In this article, we will take a close look at both universities, comparing their academics, faculty, student life, and more. We will also provide a prediction on which university will be the best choice for you.
Academics
Princeton and Harvard are both known for their excellent academics. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and both have a strong commitment to research.
According to the 2023 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Princeton is ranked #1 in the nation for overall undergraduate education, while Harvard is ranked #2. Princeton is also ranked #1 in several specific academic disciplines, including mathematics, physics, and economics. Harvard is ranked #1 in other disciplines, such as history, political science, and sociology.
Both Princeton and Harvard have a low student-to-faculty ratio, which means that students have more opportunities to interact with their professors. Princeton’s student-to-faculty ratio is 5:1, while Harvard’s is 6:1.
Princeton and Harvard both offer a variety of academic resources to their students, including libraries, research centers, and tutoring services. Princeton’s library system is one of the largest in the world, with over 13 million volumes. Harvard’s library system is also very large, with over 18 million volumes.
Faculty
Princeton and Harvard both have a world-renowned faculty. Many of the professors at both universities are leaders in their fields of research.
According to the 2023 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), Princeton is ranked #1 in the world for faculty quality. Harvard is ranked #2.
Princeton and Harvard both have a large number of Nobel laureates on their faculty. Princeton has 37 Nobel laureates, while Harvard has 33.
Student Life
Princeton and Harvard both offer a vibrant student life. Both universities have a wide range of student clubs and organizations, as well as athletic teams.
Princeton’s student body is slightly smaller than Harvard’s, with about 5,400 undergraduate students. Harvard’s undergraduate student body is about 7,000.
Princeton and Harvard both have a strong commitment to undergraduate research. Both universities offer a variety of opportunities for students to get involved in research projects.
Princeton and Harvard both have a beautiful campus. Princeton’s campus is located in a small town, while Harvard’s campus is located in a large city.
Which University is Right for You?
Princeton and Harvard are both excellent universities. The best way to decide which university is right for you is to visit both campuses and talk to students and faculty.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when making your decision:
- What are your academic interests?
- What kind of student life are you looking for?
- What kind of campus environment do you want?
- What are your career goals?
Once you have answered these questions, you can start to narrow down your choices.
Prediction
Based on our research, we predict that Princeton will continue to be ranked as the #1 university in the nation for undergraduate education in the years to come. Harvard will likely remain ranked in the top 5.
Both Princeton and Harvard are excellent universities, and both will provide you with a world-class education. The best way to decide which university is right for you is to visit both campuses and talk to students and faculty.