Harvard University vs University of Pennsylvania

Cambridge, MA — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location Cambridge, MA Philadelphia, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,601 10,650
Acceptance Rate 3.6% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,553 1,553
In-State Tuition $61,676 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $61,676 $68,686
Avg Net Price $19,066 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 97.5% 96.7%
Retention Rate 98.3% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $99,572 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $101,817 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 42000.0% 202200.0%

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

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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Harvard University and University of Pennsylvania compare?
Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $61,676, and median 10-year earnings of $101,817. 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, Harvard University or University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $101,817. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Harvard University or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Harvard University is the more affordable option at $19,066 per year versus $28,699.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 96.7%.

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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