University of Pennsylvania vs Southern Methodist University

Philadelphia, PA — Dallas, TX

Metric
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Location Philadelphia, PA Dallas, TX
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,650 7,277
Acceptance Rate 5.4% 63.3%
SAT Average 1,553 1,428
In-State Tuition $68,686 $67,040
Out-of-State Tuition $68,686 $67,040
Avg Net Price $28,699 $40,892
Median Debt at Graduation $15,715 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.7% 83.8%
Retention Rate 98.9% 90.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $90,555 $65,556
Median Earnings (10 yr) $111,371 $78,354
Loan Repayment Rate 202200.0% 131300.0%

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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Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Pennsylvania and Southern Methodist 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. Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) has an acceptance rate of 63.3%, in-state tuition of $67,040, and median 10-year earnings of $78,354.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Pennsylvania or Southern Methodist University?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $78,354. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania or Southern Methodist University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Pennsylvania is the more affordable option at $28,699 per year versus $40,892.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Pennsylvania has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.7% vs 83.8%.

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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