Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus vs University of Wisconsin-Madison
University Park, PA — Madison, WI
| Metric | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus University Park, PA | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Location | University Park, PA | Madison, WI |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 42,284 | 36,902 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.6% | 45.2% |
| SAT Average | 1,337 | 1,427 |
| In-State Tuition | $20,644 | $11,603 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $41,790 | $42,103 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,875 | $17,354 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 | $20,484 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.9% | 89.4% |
| Retention Rate | 92.6% | 96.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,620 | $61,275 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,435 | $73,792 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 3192600.0% | 729100.0% |
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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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus and University of Wisconsin-Madison 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. University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or University of Wisconsin-Madison?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $73,792 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or University of Wisconsin-Madison?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 per year versus $32,875.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 85.9%.
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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