Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus vs Southern Methodist University
University Park, PA — Dallas, TX
| Metric | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus University Park, PA | Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Location | University Park, PA | Dallas, TX |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 42,284 | 7,277 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.6% | 63.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,337 | 1,428 |
| In-State Tuition | $20,644 | $67,040 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $41,790 | $67,040 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,875 | $40,892 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.9% | 83.8% |
| Retention Rate | 92.6% | 90.5% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,620 | $65,556 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,435 | $78,354 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 3192600.0% | 131300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
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Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus and Southern Methodist University compare?▼
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. Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) has an acceptance rate of 63.3%, in-state tuition of $67,040, and median 10-year earnings of $78,354.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or Southern Methodist University?▼
Southern Methodist University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $78,354 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or Southern Methodist University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $32,875 per year versus $40,892.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.9% vs 83.8%.
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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