College Comparison
Columbia University vs University of Pennsylvania: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Columbia University
New York, NY
School
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | UPenn |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 5.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570 | 1500–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $66,104wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148wins | $31,229 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491 | $111,371wins |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0% | 96.8%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.2% | 98.1%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 8:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899 | 10,768wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UPenn edges out Columbia on 6 of 9 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $20,148
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 6:1
UPenn Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $66,104
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $111,371
- ✓Graduation Rate: 96.8%
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