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Northeastern University vs University of Pennsylvania

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Northeastern University
#64
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Private
University of Pennsylvania
#10
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Boston, MA

Philadelphia, PA

Total Enrollment

32,553

29,109

Undergrad Enrollment

17,432

11,478

Student-Faculty Ratio

16:1

8:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

5.2%

5.4%

Average GPA

4.00

3.96

SAT Range

1440–1540

1510–1570

ACT Range

33–35

34–36

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$75

$75

Total Applicants

98,425

65,226


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$78,680

$75,386

Avg Net Price

$32,116

$31,229

Tuition (In-State)

$59,100

$56,212

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$59,100

$56,212

Room & Board

$19,580

$19,174

% Receiving Aid

66.0%

51.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$50,421

$65,458


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

90.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

35.0%

90.0%

Retention Rate

97.0%

99.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$92,538

$111,371

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Northeastern is in Boston, MA

Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Northeastern University has an acceptance rate of 5%, while Penn has an acceptance rate of 5%. This means Northeastern University is more selective than Penn.

The average net price at Northeastern University is $32,116 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Penn is $887 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Northeastern University typically score between 1440-1540 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.

Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Northeastern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Penn offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.

At Northeastern University, 66% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $50,421. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.

The median earnings for Northeastern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $92,538, 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.

Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.