Northern State University vs University of Pennsylvania
Aberdeen, SD — Philadelphia, PA
| Metric | Northern State University Aberdeen, SD | University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Aberdeen, SD | Philadelphia, PA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 1,273 | 10,650 |
| Acceptance Rate | 93.0% | 5.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,089 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,845 | $68,686 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $11,947 | $68,686 |
| Avg Net Price | $15,812 | $28,699 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,320 | $15,715 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 50.5% | 96.7% |
| Retention Rate | 77.0% | 98.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $41,536 | $90,555 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $47,618 | $111,371 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 113800.0% | 202200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northern State University
Aberdeen, SD
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northern State University and University of Pennsylvania compare?▼
Northern State University (Aberdeen, SD) has an acceptance rate of 93.0%, in-state tuition of $8,845, and median 10-year earnings of $47,618. 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, Northern State University or University of Pennsylvania?▼
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $47,618. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern State University or University of Pennsylvania?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern State University is the more affordable option at $15,812 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 50.5%.
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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