University of Pennsylvania vs San Diego State University

Philadelphia, PA — San Diego, CA

Metric
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Location Philadelphia, PA San Diego, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 10,650 35,377
Acceptance Rate 5.4% 36.2%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $68,686 $8,728
Out-of-State Tuition $68,686 $21,328
Avg Net Price $28,699 $15,364
Median Debt at Graduation $15,715 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.7% 77.3%
Retention Rate 98.9% 90.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $90,555 $52,620
Median Earnings (10 yr) $111,371 $64,909
Loan Repayment Rate 202200.0% 794300.0%

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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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Pennsylvania and San Diego State 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. San Diego State University (San Diego, CA) has an acceptance rate of 36.2%, in-state tuition of $8,728, and median 10-year earnings of $64,909.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Pennsylvania or San Diego State University?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania or San Diego State University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Diego State University is the more affordable option at $15,364 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 77.3%.

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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