College Comparison
Harvard 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
Cambridge, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
30,259
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
5.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1510–1580
1510–1570
ACT Range
34–36
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$75
Total Applicants
54,008
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$56,212
Room & Board
$21,190
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$111,371
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Harvard University is $14,413 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 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.
Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Harvard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Harvard University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Harvard University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,015. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, 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.
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

