Auburn University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Auburn, AL — University Park, PA

Metric
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
Location Auburn, AL University Park, PA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 26,816 42,284
Acceptance Rate 45.9% 60.6%
SAT Average 1,345 1,337
In-State Tuition $12,890 $20,644
Out-of-State Tuition $34,922 $41,790
Avg Net Price $24,323 $32,875
Median Debt at Graduation $21,000 $25,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 80.6% 85.9%
Retention Rate 94.8% 92.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $54,629 $55,620
Median Earnings (10 yr) $65,337 $63,435
Loan Repayment Rate 527100.0% 3192600.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Auburn University
Auburn, AL
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Auburn University and Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus compare?
Auburn University (Auburn, AL) has an acceptance rate of 45.9%, in-state tuition of $12,890, and median 10-year earnings of $65,337. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus (University Park, PA) has an acceptance rate of 60.6%, in-state tuition of $20,644, and median 10-year earnings of $63,435.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Auburn University or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?
Auburn University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $65,337 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Auburn University or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Auburn University is the more affordable option at $24,323 per year versus $32,875.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.9% vs 80.6%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025