College Comparison
Baylor University 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
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
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Explore by Location
Baylor is in Waco, TX
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
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.

