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George Washington University vs University of Pennsylvania

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

11
George Wins
5
Tied / N/A
30
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
11,182
Enrollment
10,650
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1433
SAT Average
1553
32
ACT Midpoint
34
1350-1500
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$68,686
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,686
$36,586
Average Net Price
$28,699
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-3,012
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$316
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$10,439
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$55,972
16%
Pell Grant Rate
17%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
10%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
97%
92%
Retention Rate
99%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
79%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$22,117
16%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

63%
Female
57%
48%
White
27%
14%
Hispanic
11%
8%
Black
9%
16%
Asian
28%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$90,555
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$100,118
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$111,371
$20,449
Median Debt
$15,715
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
82%
Earning Above HS
90%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

215.66%
Mobility Rate
176.28%
4225.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3025.0%
510.4%
From Bottom 20%
582.7%
$137,300
Parent Median Income
$95,400

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.88
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.00
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
7.8%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
#109
60.6
Teaching Score
46.3
43.1
Research Score
49.2
70.2
Citations Score
77.6

The Overviews

George Washington University

Washington, DC · Private nonprofit

47% accept 85% grad $90,873 earnings $36,586 net

George Washington University reports a striking graduation rate of 85%. This figure reflects the university's commitment to student success and its supportive academic environment. With a significant portion of students completing their degrees, GWU stands out for those seeking reliable pathways to graduation.

The earnings potential for graduates is compelling. Alumni earn an average of $90,873 within ten years of graduation. This income level positions graduates well within the job market, contributing to long-term financial stability. Although specific mobility data is not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are likely to improve their economic circumstances through their education at GWU.

The net price for attending George Washington University is $36,586, with a median debt of $20,449. This balance makes it an appealing choice for students who can manage costs while aiming for solid post-graduate earnings. GWU attracts those interested in fields like social sciences, health professions, and business, where graduates find ample opportunities to thrive in Washington, D.C.'s dynamic job market.

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit

5% accept 97% grad $111,371 earnings $28,699 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, the University of Pennsylvania attracts students who are not only academically strong but also deeply passionate about their fields. This school is especially well-suited for those interested in areas like Biology and Biomedical studies, Social Sciences, Health Professions, Computer Science and IT, and Business and Marketing. The vibrant atmosphere of Philadelphia adds an urban edge to the college experience, making it a great fit for students looking to engage in both rigorous academics and lively city life.

Looking at the outcomes, graduates from Penn see significant returns on their investment. With a 10-year earnings average of $111,371, it's clear that a degree from here can open doors to lucrative career paths. While 17% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to supporting diverse backgrounds, the high graduation rate of 97% suggests that students who enroll are likely to complete their studies successfully.

Financially, the net price after aid sits at $28,699, which is manageable given the strong earning potential post-graduation. With a median debt of $15,715, students here can graduate with a reasonable financial burden. Those who thrive at Penn are often highly motivated, driven, and ready to take advantage of the rich resources and opportunities available within the institution and the surrounding city.

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