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Ohio State University-Main Campus vs University of Pennsylvania

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

10
Ohio Wins
12
Tied / N/A
24
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Mid-Atlantic
45,638
Enrollment
10,650
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

61%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1387
SAT Average
1553
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1310-1480
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$13,244
In-State Tuition
$68,686
$40,022
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,686
$17,339
Average Net Price
$28,699
$4,885
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-3,012
$5,751
Net Price ($30-48K)
$316
$9,807
Net Price ($48-75K)
$10,439
$27,359
Net Price ($110K+)
$55,972
20%
Pell Grant Rate
17%
29%
Federal Loan Rate
10%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
97%
94%
Retention Rate
99%
63%
Full-Time Faculty
79%
$14,386
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$22,117
26%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

52%
Female
57%
60%
White
27%
6%
Hispanic
11%
8%
Black
9%
11%
Asian
28%
0.61
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$51,438
Earnings (6yr)
$90,555
$56,186
Earnings (8yr)
$100,118
$60,409
Earnings (10yr)
$111,371
$19,976
Median Debt
$15,715
0.33x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
72%
Earning Above HS
90%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
176.28%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3025.0%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
582.7%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$95,400

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.88
0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
8.5%
Volunteering Rate
7.8%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#109
N/A
Teaching Score
46.3
N/A
Research Score
49.2
N/A
Citations Score
77.6

The Overviews

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public

61% accept 88% grad $60,409 earnings $17,339 net

With an enrollment of over 45,600 students, Ohio State University-Main Campus is a vibrant place for those seeking a large, diverse community. It attracts students who are eager to explore a variety of fields, especially in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Health Professions, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 61% means there's a good chance for students to join this dynamic environment, where the graduation rate stands impressively at 88%.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $60,409 within ten years of completing their degree. This level of income can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life, particularly when the cost of attending is manageable. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, Ohio State shows a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, providing pathways for upward mobility.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $17,339, which keeps college within reach for many families. The median debt load of $19,976 is relatively low compared to what students at other public institutions might face. This combination of affordability and strong outcomes makes Ohio State a fitting choice for motivated students who are ready to thrive in a collaborative and engaging setting.

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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