Grand Canyon University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Phoenix, AZ — University Park, PA

Metric
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
Location Phoenix, AZ University Park, PA
Type Private For-Profit Public
Total Enrollment 73,371 42,284
Acceptance Rate 78.9% 60.6%
SAT Average 1,077 1,337
In-State Tuition $17,850 $20,644
Out-of-State Tuition $17,850 $41,790
Avg Net Price $22,472 $32,875
Median Debt at Graduation $22,114 $25,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 43.3% 85.9%
Retention Rate 72.0% 92.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,280 $55,620
Median Earnings (10 yr) $42,186 $63,435
Loan Repayment Rate 2834800.0% 3192600.0%

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

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Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Grand Canyon University and Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus compare?
Grand Canyon University (Phoenix, AZ) has an acceptance rate of 78.9%, in-state tuition of $17,850, and median 10-year earnings of $42,186. 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, Grand Canyon University or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,435 vs $42,186. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Grand Canyon University or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Grand Canyon University is the more affordable option at $22,472 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 43.3%.

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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