College Comparison
Amherst College vs Brandeis University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Waltham, MA
Total Enrollment
1,914
5,205
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
3,632
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
40.5%
Average GPA
3.90
3.82
SAT Range
1490–1580
1390–1520
ACT Range
33–35
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$80
Total Applicants
13,743
10,462
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$80,308
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$33,885
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$61,724
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$61,724
Room & Board
$18,390
$18,584
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
62.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$42,841
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
88.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
87.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$77,231
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Brandeis is in Waltham, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $33,885 at Brandeis University. Amherst College is $15,639 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Brandeis University, the typical SAT range is 1390-1520. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Brandeis University has a graduation rate of 88%. Amherst College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Brandeis University has a ratio of 10:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Brandeis University, 62% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,841.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $77,231 for Brandeis University graduates. Graduates from Amherst College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Brandeis University is located in Waltham, MA in a city: small setting.

