University of Wisconsin-Madison and Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public. UW - Madison is located in Madison, WI and Penn State is located in University Park, PA.
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | vs. | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Madison, Wisconsin | Location | University Park, Pennsylvania |
| Four-year, Public | School Type | four-year, Public |
| Doctor's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
| Research University (very high research activity) | Carnegie Classification | Research University (very high research activity) |
In-State$11,603
Out-Of-State$42,103 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | In-State$20,644
Out-Of-State$41,790 |
| 43% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 50% |
| $15,223 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $14,013 |
| 45.20 % | Acceptance Rates | 60.56 % |
| 28.59 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 17.11 % |
| 1,460 | SAT Score | 1,330 |
| 31 | ACT Score | 30 |
| 90 % | Graduation Rate | 86 % |
| - | Transfer-out Rate | 2 % |
| 96 % | Retention Rate | 93 % |
| 51,044 | Student Population | 50,737 |
| 3,852 | Number of Faculties | 4,174 |
| 18 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 16 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher Certification | Special Learning Opportunities | Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, On-campus daycare |