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Southern Methodist University vs University of Pennsylvania

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

Southern Methodist University
#59
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Private
University of Pennsylvania
#10
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Dallas, TX

Philadelphia, PA

Total Enrollment

12,116

29,109

Undergrad Enrollment

7,285

11,478

Student-Faculty Ratio

11:1

8:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

63.4%

5.4%

Average GPA

3.66

3.96

SAT Range

1340–1490

1510–1570

ACT Range

30–34

34–36

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$60

$75

Total Applicants

15,245

65,226


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$74,076

$75,386

Avg Net Price

$41,778

$31,229

Tuition (In-State)

$55,012

$56,212

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$55,012

$56,212

Room & Board

$19,064

$19,174

% Receiving Aid

67.0%

51.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$37,520

$65,458


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

82.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

75.0%

90.0%

Retention Rate

91.0%

99.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$78,354

$111,371

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Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX

Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63%, while Penn has an acceptance rate of 5%. This means Penn is more selective than Southern Methodist University.

The average net price at Southern Methodist University is $41,778 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Penn is $10,549 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Southern Methodist University typically score between 1340-1490 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.

Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Southern Methodist University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Penn offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.

At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $37,520. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.

The median earnings for Southern Methodist University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $78,354, 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.

Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.