College comparison

Columbia University in the City of New York vs University of Pennsylvania

A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.

Quick answers

Is Columbia University in the City of New York or University of Pennsylvania harder to get into?

Columbia University in the City of New York is more selective: Columbia University in the City of New York's acceptance rate is approximately 4% and University of Pennsylvania's is approximately 5% (estimates from public and primary sources).

What SAT score do you need for Columbia University in the City of New York vs University of Pennsylvania?

The middle-50% SAT range is 1510–1580 at Columbia University in the City of New York and 1510–1570 at University of Pennsylvania. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.

Which is cheaper, Columbia University in the City of New York or University of Pennsylvania?

Columbia University in the City of New York has the lower average net price after aid: $21,590 at Columbia University in the City of New York vs $28,699 at University of Pennsylvania. Actual cost varies with financial aid and residency.

Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.

These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.