James Madison University vs University of Pennsylvania

Harrisonburg, VA — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location Harrisonburg, VA Philadelphia, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 20,888 10,650
Acceptance Rate 71.5% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,256 1,553
In-State Tuition $14,250 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $31,604 $68,686
Avg Net Price $23,322 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $20,093 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 80.3% 96.7%
Retention Rate 92.0% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $57,438 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $69,954 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 457600.0% 202200.0%

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

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James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do James Madison University and University of Pennsylvania compare?
James Madison University (Harrisonburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 71.5%, in-state tuition of $14,250, and median 10-year earnings of $69,954. 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, James Madison University or University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $69,954. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, James Madison University or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), James Madison University is the more affordable option at $23,322 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 80.3%.

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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