College Comparison
University of Pennsylvania vs UNC Chapel Hill: 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
UNC Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | UPenn | UNC Chapel Hill |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 5.9%wins | 18.7% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1570wins | 1370–1530 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 30–34 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $66,104 | $39,330wins |
| Avg Net Price | $31,229 | $12,983wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $111,371wins | $72,200 |
| Graduation Rate | 96.8%wins | 92.1% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1%wins | 97.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 8:1wins | 15:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 10,768 | 20,556wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UPenn edges out UNC Chapel Hill on 7 of 10 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%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $111,371
UNC Chapel Hill Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $39,330
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,983
- ✓Total Enrollment: 20,556
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