University of Pennsylvania vs Cornell University

Philadelphia, PA — Ithaca, NY

Metric
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Philadelphia, PA Ithaca, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,650 15,995
Acceptance Rate 5.4% 8.8%
SAT Average 1,553 1,535
In-State Tuition $68,686 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $68,686 $69,314
Avg Net Price $28,699 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $15,715 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.7% 95.3%
Retention Rate 98.9% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $90,555 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $111,371 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 202200.0% 313700.0%

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

Full Profile
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University 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. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Pennsylvania or Cornell University?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $104,043. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Cornell University is the more affordable option at $28,690 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 95.3%.

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