College Comparison
University of Pennsylvania vs Rice University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
School
Rice University
Houston, TX
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | UPenn | Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 5.9%wins | 7.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1570 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $66,104 | $58,128wins |
| Avg Net Price | $31,229 | $12,640wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $111,371wins | $89,718 |
| Graduation Rate | 96.8%wins | 95.7% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1%wins | 97.6% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 8:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 10,768wins | 4,562 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UPenn edges out Rice on 5 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.
UPenn Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 5.9%
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $111,371
- ✓Graduation Rate: 96.8%
- ✓Retention Rate: 98.1%
Rice Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,128
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,640
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 6:1
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