University of Pennsylvania vs Columbia University in the City of New York
Philadelphia, PA — New York, NY
| Metric | University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Philadelphia, PA | New York, NY |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 10,650 | 8,973 |
| Acceptance Rate | 5.4% | 4.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,686 | $71,845 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,686 | $71,845 |
| Avg Net Price | $28,699 | $21,590 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,715 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 96.7% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 98.9% | 98.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $90,555 | $88,535 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $111,371 | $102,491 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 202200.0% | 185800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?▼
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. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Pennsylvania or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $102,491. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia University in the City of New York is the more affordable option at $21,590 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 95.5%.
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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