University of Massachusetts-Amherst vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Amherst, MA — University Park, PA

Metric
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
Location Amherst, MA University Park, PA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 23,671 42,284
Acceptance Rate 59.7% 60.6%
SAT Average 1,423 1,337
In-State Tuition $17,772 $20,644
Out-of-State Tuition $40,449 $41,790
Avg Net Price $22,383 $32,875
Median Debt at Graduation $22,763 $25,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 83.2% 85.9%
Retention Rate 91.9% 92.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,347 $55,620
Median Earnings (10 yr) $71,631 $63,435
Loan Repayment Rate 893200.0% 3192600.0%

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

Full Profile
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus compare?
University of Massachusetts-Amherst (Amherst, MA) has an acceptance rate of 59.7%, in-state tuition of $17,772, and median 10-year earnings of $71,631. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Massachusetts-Amherst or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?
University of Massachusetts-Amherst graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $71,631 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Massachusetts-Amherst or Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Massachusetts-Amherst is the more affordable option at $22,383 per year versus $32,875.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.9% vs 83.2%.

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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