University of California-Santa Cruz vs University of Pennsylvania
Santa Cruz, CA — Philadelphia, PA
| Metric | University of California-Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, CA | University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Santa Cruz, CA | Philadelphia, PA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 17,940 | 10,650 |
| Acceptance Rate | 65.8% | 5.4% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,005 | $68,686 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $50,205 | $68,686 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,890 | $28,699 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $16,666 | $15,715 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 74.8% | 96.7% |
| Retention Rate | 87.9% | 98.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $49,716 | $90,555 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $68,396 | $111,371 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 552700.0% | 202200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of California-Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-Santa Cruz and University of Pennsylvania compare?▼
University of California-Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz, CA) has an acceptance rate of 65.8%, in-state tuition of $16,005, and median 10-year earnings of $68,396. 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, University of California-Santa Cruz or University of Pennsylvania?▼
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $68,396. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Santa Cruz or University of Pennsylvania?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Santa Cruz is the more affordable option at $17,890 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 74.8%.
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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