Salem State University vs University of Pennsylvania

Salem, MA — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
Salem State University
Salem, MA
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location Salem, MA Philadelphia, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 4,291 10,650
Acceptance Rate 95.9% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $12,338 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $19,531 $68,686
Avg Net Price $15,996 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $25,000 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 52.4% 96.7%
Retention Rate 75.3% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,209 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $56,662 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 326000.0% 202200.0%

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

Full Profile
Salem State University
Salem, MA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Salem State University and University of Pennsylvania compare?
Salem State University (Salem, MA) has an acceptance rate of 95.9%, in-state tuition of $12,338, and median 10-year earnings of $56,662. 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, Salem State University or University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $56,662. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Salem State University or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Salem State University is the more affordable option at $15,996 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 52.4%.

More Comparisons

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