Columbia University vs. University of Pennsylvania
Side by side: median LSAT, median GPA, estimated tuition, and selectivity rank for two of the most compared law schools. Medians from ABA Standard 509 disclosures via ILRG, Fall 2025 entering class.
| Measure | Columbia University | University of Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Location | New York, NY | Philadelphia, PA |
| Selectivity rank | #5 | #5 |
| Median LSAT | 173 | 173 |
| Median GPA | 3.92 | 3.95 |
| Est. annual tuition | $85,368 | $78,348 |
| Est. 3-year tuition | $256,104 | $235,044 |
Pros and cons, from the data
Columbia University
Pros
- Lower median GPA (3.92 vs. 3.95)
- More selective (rank #5), which can mean stronger outcomes for graduates
Cons
- Higher sticker tuition than University of Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania
Pros
- Lower sticker tuition than Columbia University
Cons
- Higher median GPA (3.95 vs. 3.92)
Pros and cons are computed from the medians and sticker prices above, not from reviews. Scholarships can erase a sticker-price gap.
How to choose between them
Start with your numbers. If your LSAT sits at or above 173, Columbia University is a target for you; if it sits below, it is a reach. Do the same math against 173 for University of Pennsylvania. Then weigh the cost gap: about $21,060 over three years at sticker, before scholarships. A school whose median you clear is also a school more likely to offer you merit aid, which can erase a sticker-price gap. Visit if you can. Talk to recent graduates doing the work you want to do. The medians get you a short list; the visit and the aid letter make the decision.
More comparisons
Open this pair in the comparison tool to swap in other schools. Or try another popular pair:
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Last updated October 12, 2026