College Comparison
Southern Methodist 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
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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Explore by Location
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
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.

