San Diego State University vs University of Pennsylvania

San Diego, CA — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location San Diego, CA Philadelphia, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 35,377 10,650
Acceptance Rate 36.2% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $8,728 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $21,328 $68,686
Avg Net Price $15,364 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 77.3% 96.7%
Retention Rate 90.6% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,620 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $64,909 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 794300.0% 202200.0%

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

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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do San Diego State University and University of Pennsylvania compare?
San Diego State University (San Diego, CA) has an acceptance rate of 36.2%, in-state tuition of $8,728, and median 10-year earnings of $64,909. 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, San Diego State University or University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Diego State University or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Diego State University is the more affordable option at $15,364 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 77.3%.

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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