College Comparison
Amherst College vs Occidental 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
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,914
1,881
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
1,881
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
44.2%
Average GPA
3.90
3.70
SAT Range
1490–1580
1380–1520
ACT Range
33–35
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$70
Total Applicants
13,743
6,461
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$80,250
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$39,329
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$59,970
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$59,970
Room & Board
$18,390
$20,280
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
75.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$36,400
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
81.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
77.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
90.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$75,951
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Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Occidental is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $39,329 at Occidental College. Amherst College is $21,083 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Occidental College, the typical SAT range is 1380-1520. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Occidental College has a graduation rate of 81%. 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 Occidental 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 Occidental College, 75% of students receive aid with an average grant of $36,400.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $75,951 for Occidental College 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. Occidental College is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.