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Baylor University vs Southern Methodist University

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Baylor University
#92
Baylor University
Waco, TX
Private
Southern Methodist University
#59
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Waco, TX

Dallas, TX

Total Enrollment

20,626

12,116

Undergrad Enrollment

14,915

7,285

Student-Faculty Ratio

15:1

11:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

51.3%

63.4%

Average GPA

3.67

3.66

SAT Range

1200–1400

1340–1490

ACT Range

27–32

30–34

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$0

$60

Total Applicants

46,946

15,245


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$67,052

$74,076

Avg Net Price

$41,942

$41,778

Tuition (In-State)

$51,738

$55,012

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$51,738

$55,012

Room & Board

$15,314

$19,064

% Receiving Aid

98.0%

67.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$27,232

$37,520


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

82.0%

82.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

70.0%

75.0%

Retention Rate

91.0%

91.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$65,793

$78,354

More Comparisons
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Baylor is in Waco, TX

Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX

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Frequently Asked Questions

Baylor University has an acceptance rate of 51%, while Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63%. This means Baylor University is more selective than Southern Methodist University.

The average net price at Baylor University is $41,942 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Southern Methodist University is $164 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Baylor University typically score between 1200-1400 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.

Baylor University has a graduation rate of 82%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Southern Methodist University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Baylor University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Southern Methodist University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.

At Baylor University, 98% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $27,232. At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.

The median earnings for Baylor University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $65,793, 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.

Baylor University is located in Waco, TX in a city: midsize setting. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.