University of Pennsylvania vs Washington University in St Louis

Philadelphia, PA — St. Louis, MO

Metric
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MO
Location Philadelphia, PA St. Louis, MO
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,650 7,857
Acceptance Rate 5.4% 12.1%
SAT Average 1,553 1,530
In-State Tuition $68,686 $65,790
Out-of-State Tuition $68,686 $65,790
Avg Net Price $28,699 $21,786
Median Debt at Graduation $15,715 $17,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.7% 94.3%
Retention Rate 98.9% 95.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $90,555 $78,073
Median Earnings (10 yr) $111,371 $86,182
Loan Repayment Rate 202200.0% 104800.0%

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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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MO
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Pennsylvania and Washington University in St Louis 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. Washington University in St Louis (St. Louis, MO) has an acceptance rate of 12.1%, in-state tuition of $65,790, and median 10-year earnings of $86,182.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Pennsylvania or Washington University in St Louis?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $86,182. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania or Washington University in St Louis?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Washington University in St Louis is the more affordable option at $21,786 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 94.3%.

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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