Cornell University vs University of Pennsylvania

Ithaca, NY — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location Ithaca, NY Philadelphia, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 15,995 10,650
Acceptance Rate 8.8% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,535 1,553
In-State Tuition $69,314 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $69,314 $68,686
Avg Net Price $28,690 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.3% 96.7%
Retention Rate 98.4% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $87,830 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $104,043 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 313700.0% 202200.0%

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

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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Cornell University and University of Pennsylvania compare?
Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) has an acceptance rate of 5.4%, in-state tuition of $68,686, and median 10-year earnings of $111,371.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Cornell University or University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $104,043. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Cornell University or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Cornell University is the more affordable option at $28,690 per year versus $28,699.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Pennsylvania has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.7% vs 95.3%.

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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