Penn State vs USF
How Penn State and USF stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Penn State | USF | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 61% | 62% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1330-1480 | 1200-1380 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Public | Private |
| Location | PA | CA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $36,900 | $74,500 |
| Average cost after aid | $28,100 | $44,104 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- Penn State is harder to get into than USF (61% versus 62%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Penn State is usually the cheaper option ($28,100 versus $44,104 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- USF asks for more supplemental writing (2 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.
Penn State vs USF FAQ
Is Penn State or USF harder to get into?
Penn State is harder to get into, admitting about 61% of applicants versus 62% at USF.
Is Penn State or USF cheaper?
After financial aid, Penn State is usually cheaper, about $28,100 per year on average versus $44,104 at USF.
See your real chances at Penn State and USF.
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