Massachusetts Institute of Technology Vs University of Pennsylvania: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare Massachusetts Institute of Technology Vs University of Pennsylvania based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Massachusetts Institute of Technology Vs University of Pennsylvania on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare Massachusetts Institute of Technology Vs University of Pennsylvania based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Massachusetts Institute of Technology Vs University of Pennsylvania on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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Detailed comparison
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn College Comparison
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn Rank Comparison
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn Campus Comparison
Student’s views on campus
Views on Massachusetts Institute of Technology campus
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Transportation/Master of Science in Technology and Policy - Batch of 2024
3.7
Funded Masters at MIT with lots of events and activities.
Tips: Students should know that many MIT Masters programs, including TPP, are fully funded through RAships. You can apply to multiple MIT programs in the same application cycle, and you can also apply for a dual master's degree with other departments after you are admitted to an MIT program. The allowance is almost $45,000 per year, in addition to tuition and health coverage. This amount is sufficient to live in Boston and save some money.
Likes (Student Life): There are lots of fun activities to do in Boston. You can also learn how to sail for free. There are many clubs on campus that you can join for free. Boston is very bikeable so you can bike anywhere within the city. It's very pretty in the fall. People also regularly rent cars to hike in New Hampshire.
Dislikes (Part time work): You will be on a RAship so there is no need for part time for most MIT grad programs except Sloan ones. Taking on additional part-time activities might be restricted by your F1 visa. You won't need additional sources of income over RAship money and you won't have the time for it.
Reviewed on 13 Sep 2024Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Batch of 2025
4.6
Great university and country.
Tips: The transition to a new place was initially a mix of excitement and challenge. Academically, I had to adapt to a more independent and practical learning environment compared to the more theoretical style I was used to. Overall, I am highly satisfied with my university, course, and country.
Likes (Student Life): My college life is filled with wonderful memories, and my teachers encourage me to study harder. My university has a vibrant campus culture that makes it easy to be part of social events on and off campus. We have so many student clubs and societies, and we participate in numerous events. I love that our campus hosts major events, including cultural festivals and academic career events.
Dislikes (Indian Food): The food is very tasty and hygienic. They have a good selection of popular Indian dishes. The famous restaurants are budget-friendly eateries. I like eating inside and outside, and they're not very expensive here.
Reviewed on 16 Jun 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
Data Analysis for Social Scientists - Batch of 2024
5
High qualified faculty and diverse community of students.
Tips: Before joining this college, students should be aware of its strong emphasis on practical learning and industry collaboration. Additionally, students should be aware of the competitive academic environment, the diverse student body, and the fact that the college is located in a bustling city with ample internship opportunities. The teachers are some of the best I have ever had. They were supportive and experienced and I am excited to continue learning under their guidance. College life is awesome as there is exposure to diversity and it is an informative period marked by learning, growth, and exploration, where individuals actively engage with academics, social interactions, and personal development often considered carefree and joyful. Teachers within the college demonstrate a high level of subject matter expertise, effective teaching practices, strong communication skills, commitment to student learning, and active management in research and scholarly activities.
Reviewed on 28 Jan 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Transportation/Master in City Planning - Batch of 2020
3.7
It has been an exceptional experience studying at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Tips: Before joining college, students should research the college's culture, academic programs, and campus resources. They should also understand their scholarship and financial aid options. To make a smooth transition, students should seek out supportive professors and peers. They should also prepare for cultural and academic adjustments, and join clubs and organizations to build connections. To apply for a scholarship, students should submit their academic transcripts and essays through the college's website. The scholarship allowance can help students focus on their academics and extracurricular activities.
Likes (Safety): I feel grateful to be part of such a supportive community. I have had extremely positive experiences in the city. The local community is friendly and welcoming, with many amenities and services available to support students. I have never felt threatened or unsafe while exploring the city. One notable experience was when I got lost in the city during my first week. A local resident approached me and offered to help me find my way back to campus. This kindness and generosity have stuck with me, and I feel grateful to be part of such a supportive community.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): While there are some job opportunities available, the process of securing a sponsor visa can be challenging and competitive. There are a limited number of companies that offer sponsor visas for international students, and the job roles and salary packages offered to international students vary depending on the industry, company, and job requirements. A company might offer a sponsor visa for a position in a specific field or industry, but the salary package for that position might not be as competitive as other positions that do not require a sponsor visa. Software engineer, data analyst, and IT consultant roles are common, with salary packages ranging from 60,000 to 100,000 dollars per year.
Reviewed on 1 Dec 2024Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Transportation/Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Batch of 2021
5
Best college with great academics and friendly faculty.
Tips: I would advise students to be well-prepared academically before joining this college. The classes are more research-oriented, so be ready to get your hands dirty. Also, be prepared to take classes from outside the university. Finally, always be ready to jump in and make yourself available in class. The academics at this college were diverse, and the teachers were very knowledgeable. The tutors were very friendly and helpful. I could approach them anytime, and they were always there for me. I would recommend this college to anyone. The student life was fantastic. I got a lot of learning opportunities and practical experience. Some of the greatest minds in the world work and study there. The research faculty was fabulous, and there was a lot of equipment and funding for experiments. There were a lot of clubs, too. Overall, I am satisfied with the experience.
Reviewed on 12 Nov 2024Read more
Views on UPenn campus
A
Anonymous
BA in Architecture - Batch of 2027
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
3.3
The campus is quite happening and safe as well.
Tips: So as a freshman, you will not have the option but to reside in campus housing in the first year of college. Following this, you are allowed to switch after, but till then, you will most likely be given a randomly assigned roommate as well. The campus is quite happening and safe as well. The Springs Flying is something to look forward to, and there are a lot of social gatherings in the form of mixers, games and events. The classes include active participation, which may help save your grades as well. Try to involve yourself in classes, clear your doubts, and prepare thoroughly for presentations. The faculty are very kind and understanding and will guide you throughout. Overall, I am quite satisfied with my experiences.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2025Read more
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Rohan Nagesh 
Master of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
2.7
The university has a good campus and loads of resources to live a wholesome student life.
Tips: The university is expensive and the city is not really that safe. The workload is high with a lot of assignments. The university offers a diverse range of courses but lacks concentration on one. Prospects of engineering jobs are low with not many university recruiters approaching students for post-study options.
Reviewed on 12 Feb 2024Read more
P
Priyanshu Mittal 
MSE Mechanical Engineering & Applied Mechanics - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
3.7
Give a second thought before applying.
Tips: The university life here is very much different from that in India. At least in engineering, students spend most of their time completing assignments and completing lectures. UPenn doesn't offer scholarships to Master's students but you can apply for part-time job as soon as you are on campus which will help you meet your living costs. Though the city is great, I would advise anybody who is coming to definitely give it a second thought as the job market right now is not good and doesn't look like will be better soon.
Likes (Public transportation): Philadelphia has buses, inter and intra-city trains, subways as well as trams. Also, it is easy to get cabs. Philadelphia as a city is small, hence, it is easy to go from one place to another through public transport. Furthermore, the university is located in the heart so one can go to most places by walking or cycling.
Dislikes (Value for money): Being an IVY League, the fee for the program is a lot. But compared to other universities UPenn doesn't have affiliation with the working industry. So the students don't get any benefit while looking for jobs in the market. At least in the US going to cheaper universities would be a better choice
Reviewed on 9 Feb 2024Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
3
Challenging and Stressful but equally rewarding experience at this college.
Tips: There are no scholarships available and there is no significant cultural shift. Transitioning with respect to weather may take time. Overall, university courses are good but challenging, and finding jobs and internship can be difficult. While on-campus jobs are available and helpful, they do not offer any tuition fee waivers.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty at this college are highly approachable and knowledgeable. They employ an intuitive teaching method and assign practical tasks. The teaching faculty is mostly of Asian and American background representing all types of specializations in Electrical engineering. The courses are rather challenging and not easy.
Reviewed on 6 Feb 2024Read more
R
Rajnish Gupta 
Scientific Computing, MSE - Batch of 0
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
3.5
Best learning experience.
Tips: The University might not exactly be what you expected. It is a great learning experience, and there are a lot of things to do, that it can become overwhelming and stressful at times. But if I were to choose to do it again, at some other time, with a better job market, I would. Try not to get distracted by a lot of things you see around you, as that can happen initially.
Likes (Public transportation): Philly has great and affordable public transport, you can reach pretty much anywhere in 30-40 mins, and most places of interest, downtown can be accessed in 10-15mins through the subway from University, and the transport runs at longer hours, although not the safest way to travel during certain hours the day if you're alone, but that comes in safety as per the city. The connectivity and timing itself are great.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are no Indian food options in University dining, and in general Indian food options around Philly are although not limited, but are not excellent, or anywhere close to what you can find in cities like NYC, Jersey or Chicago. There is a lot of frozen food at Indian Stores, but that is not the most healthy option out there.
Reviewed on 5 Feb 2024Read more
A
Anonymous
MSE Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
3.6
Biotech research powerhouse. Amazing opportunities.
Tips: For the CBE department, most research is in the biotech sector and so are the jobs and internships. Professors are very nice and will help you if you ask for it.
The courses are tough but are of very high quality. However, the CBE courses are very theoretical.
Dislikes (Safety): Philadelphia is not a very safe city. There are lots of break-ins and thefts. Cycles parked outside will get stolen even if locked. The Penn campus is very safe with good security. Penn also has shuttles that run at night and walking escorts for student safety.
Reviewed on 2 Feb 2024Read more
A
Anonymous
Robotics, MSE - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Pennsylvania
4.3
Lots of work and hard courses but great program. Effort is respected
Tips: The classes consist of diverse ethnicities and you hence experience an initial cultural shock. Scholarships are not available for MS students. RA opportunities are also very selective for MS students. TA opportunities are much easier to come by. Quite happy with my choice of university.
Likes (Student Life): Regular socializing events are conducted on campus. Study environment is not too stressful. Happy hours are organized once a month by every department and apart from that all the festivities also have an associated event. Regional festivities are dealt with by the Pan-Asian community and it depends on their yearly budget.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Hard to find a job that sponsors H1B. The green card process is another big headache. H1B is got through a lottery system and is then renewed every 3 years until you are eligible to apply for a green card. And you need to hold the green card for a certain number of years before you are eligible for citizenship.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2024Read more
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn Student Ratings & Reviews
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn Courses offered
5 Popular courses in colleges
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn MS
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn B.E. / B.Tech
Massachusetts Institute of Technology V/s UPenn M.Arch
Other courses
- B.Sc. (11 courses)
- B.Arch (4 courses)
- BBA (5 courses)
- M.A. (3 courses)
- PG Certificate (1 course)
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- B.Sc. (18 courses)
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