Northeastern vs Penn
How Northeastern and Penn stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Northeastern | Penn | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 5.6% | 4.9% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1480-1550 | 1500-1570 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Required |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | MA | PA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $85,856 | $87,740 |
| Average cost after aid | $38,200 | $26,017 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 3 |
- Penn is harder to get into than Northeastern (4.9% versus 5.6%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Penn is usually the cheaper option ($26,017 versus $38,200 per year on average).
- On testing, Northeastern is test-optional while Penn requires SAT or ACT scores.
- Penn asks for more supplemental writing (3 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Northeastern vs Penn FAQ
Is Northeastern or Penn harder to get into?
Penn is harder to get into, admitting about 4.9% of applicants versus 5.6% at Northeastern.
Is Northeastern or Penn cheaper?
After financial aid, Penn is usually cheaper, about $26,017 per year on average versus $38,200 at Northeastern.
See your real chances at Northeastern and Penn.
Build my college list