College Comparison
University of Chicago 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
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
18,566
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
7,598
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
4.5%
5.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1510–1580
1510–1570
ACT Range
34–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
43,612
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,288
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$18,967
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$61,179
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,179
$56,212
Room & Board
$20,109
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
47.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,300
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
99.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$91,885
$111,371
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Explore by Location
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at University of Chicago is $18,967 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. University of Chicago is $12,262 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at University of Chicago 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.
University of Chicago 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.
University of Chicago has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. University of Chicago offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At University of Chicago, 47% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,300. At Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for University of Chicago graduates 10 years after enrollment is $91,885, 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.
University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

