College Comparison
Amherst College vs Southern Methodist 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
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
1,914
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
63.4%
Average GPA
3.90
3.66
SAT Range
1490–1580
1340–1490
ACT Range
33–35
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$60
Total Applicants
13,743
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$55,012
Room & Board
$18,390
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Amherst College is $23,532 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. 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 Southern Methodist 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Southern Methodist 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

