College Comparison
Northwestern 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
Evanston, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
23,856
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
5.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1510–1570
1510–1570
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
49,474
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$56,212
Room & Board
$21,126
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$111,371
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Northwestern University is $4,086 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 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.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northwestern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Northwestern University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $64,429. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, 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.
Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

