College Comparison
Amherst College vs Colby College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Waterville, ME
Total Enrollment
1,914
2,412
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
2,412
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
7.1%
Average GPA
3.90
3.90
SAT Range
1490–1580
1460–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
13,743
19,187
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$78,730
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$23,939
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$60,840
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$60,840
Room & Board
$18,390
$17,890
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
45.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$69,201
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
87.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
82.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$80,490
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Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $23,939 at Colby College. Amherst College is $5,693 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Colby College, the typical SAT range is 1460-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%. 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 Colby College has a ratio of 9:1. 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 Colby College, 45% of students receive aid with an average grant of $69,201.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $80,490 for Colby College graduates. Graduates from Colby 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. Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting.