University of Wisconsin-Madison vs University of Pennsylvania

Madison, WI — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location Madison, WI Philadelphia, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 36,902 10,650
Acceptance Rate 45.2% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,427 1,553
In-State Tuition $11,603 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $42,103 $68,686
Avg Net Price $17,354 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $20,484 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.4% 96.7%
Retention Rate 96.2% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $61,275 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $73,792 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 729100.0% 202200.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Pennsylvania compare?
University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792. 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 Wisconsin-Madison or University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 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 89.4%.

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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