University of Pennsylvania vs Northwestern University

Philadelphia, PA — Evanston, IL

Metric
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Philadelphia, PA Evanston, IL
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,650 9,201
Acceptance Rate 5.4% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,553 1,533
In-State Tuition $68,686 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $68,686 $68,322
Avg Net Price $28,699 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $15,715 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.7% 95.5%
Retention Rate 98.9% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $90,555 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $111,371 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 202200.0% 204100.0%

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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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Pennsylvania and Northwestern 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. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Pennsylvania or Northwestern University?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Pennsylvania is the more affordable option at $28,699 per year versus $29,167.
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