College Comparison
Amherst College vs Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Total Enrollment
1,914
9,728
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
6,577
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
48.0%
Average GPA
3.90
3.74
SAT Range
1490–1580
1350–1490
ACT Range
33–35
31–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$70
Total Applicants
13,743
18,970
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$76,773
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$50,959
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$56,880
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$56,880
Room & Board
$18,390
$19,893
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
71.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$28,368
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
85.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$109,183
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Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $50,959 at Santa Clara University. Amherst College is $32,713 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Santa Clara University, the typical SAT range is 1350-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 90%. 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 Santa Clara University has a ratio of 11:1. 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 Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive aid with an average grant of $28,368.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $109,183 for Santa Clara University graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara University 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. Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting.