How do the average starting salaries of Princeton and Harvard graduates compare for me to consider?
Princeton graduates are reported to earn an average starting salary of around USD 89,144, while Harvard graduates are reported to earn around USD 91,700. Harvard's figure is therefore higher by roughly USD 2,556. Both groups commonly move into business, finance, consulting and technology roles.
Harvard graduates are reported to earn a slightly higher average starting salary, at around USD 91,700 (approx INR 88.09 L), compared with around USD 89,144 (approx INR 85.63 L) for Princeton graduates. The gap is roughly USD 2,556 (approx INR 2.46 L). Treat these as approximate averages, not guarantees.
Average starting salary comparison
| University | Average starting salary (USD) | Common career paths |
|---|---|---|
| Princeton University (New Jersey) | 89,144 (approx INR 85.63 L) | Business and finance |
| Harvard University (Massachusetts) | 91,700 (approx INR 88.09 L) | Finance, consulting and technology |
How to use these numbers
- The difference between the two averages is small compared with the overall salary level.
- Individual outcomes depend on your course, your skills and the role you take.
My Advice
Do not choose between these two on a salary gap of a couple of thousand dollars. Look at course fit, funding, and your target industry, and compare the fee you would actually pay against a realistic salary for your field.
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