College Comparison
Grinnell College 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
Grinnell, IA
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
1,788
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
5.4%
Average GPA
3.89
3.96
SAT Range
1410–1540
1510–1570
ACT Range
31–34
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
9,758
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$56,212
Room & Board
$16,842
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$111,371
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Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Grinnell College is $15,621 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 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.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Penn offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Grinnell College, 94% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $49,077. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, 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.
Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

