University of South Carolina-Columbia vs University of Pennsylvania
Columbia, SC — Philadelphia, PA
| Metric | University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, SC | University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Columbia, SC | Philadelphia, PA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 29,820 | 10,650 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.2% | 5.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,297 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $12,688 | $68,686 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $35,972 | $68,686 |
| Avg Net Price | $22,811 | $28,699 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $15,715 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 78.3% | 96.7% |
| Retention Rate | 92.2% | 98.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $50,621 | $90,555 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,177 | $111,371 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 751700.0% | 202200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of South Carolina-Columbia and University of Pennsylvania compare?▼
University of South Carolina-Columbia (Columbia, SC) has an acceptance rate of 60.2%, in-state tuition of $12,688, and median 10-year earnings of $62,177. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of South Carolina-Columbia or University of Pennsylvania?▼
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $62,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Carolina-Columbia or University of Pennsylvania?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of South Carolina-Columbia is the more affordable option at $22,811 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 78.3%.
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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