College Comparison
Boston University vs University of Pennsylvania
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Boston, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
37,737
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
5.4%
Average GPA
3.79
3.96
SAT Range
1420–1530
1510–1570
ACT Range
32–34
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
78,769
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$56,212
Room & Board
$19,020
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$111,371
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Boston University is $4,233 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Penn, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Penn offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston University, 49% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,848. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $111,371 for Penn graduates. Graduates from Penn tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

