Michigan State University vs University of Pennsylvania
East Lansing, MI — Philadelphia, PA
| Metric | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI | University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | East Lansing, MI | Philadelphia, PA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 40,922 | 10,650 |
| Acceptance Rate | 84.8% | 5.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,269 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,458 | $68,686 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $43,842 | $68,686 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,680 | $28,699 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $15,715 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 81.4% | 96.7% |
| Retention Rate | 90.0% | 98.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,084 | $90,555 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $67,253 | $111,371 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 1161300.0% | 202200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Michigan State University and University of Pennsylvania compare?▼
Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) has an acceptance rate of 84.8%, in-state tuition of $16,458, and median 10-year earnings of $67,253. 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, Michigan State University or University of Pennsylvania?▼
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or University of Pennsylvania?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Michigan State University is the more affordable option at $19,680 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 81.4%.
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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