College Comparison
Harvard 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
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
School
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | UPenn |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 5.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $66,104 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $31,229 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817 | $111,371wins |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 96.8% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 98.1% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1wins | 8:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755 | 10,768wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out UPenn on 6 of 8 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.
Harvard Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
- ✓Graduation Rate: 97.3%
UPenn Strengths
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $111,371
- ✓Total Enrollment: 10,768
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