College Comparison
Boston 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
Chestnut Hill, MA
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
15,432
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
10,314
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
16.4%
63.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.66
SAT Range
1440–1540
1340–1490
ACT Range
33–35
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$60
Total Applicants
35,037
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,866
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$39,866
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$62,950
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,950
$55,012
Room & Board
$18,916
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,971
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston College is $39,866 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Boston College is $1,912 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston College typically score between 1440-1540 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.
Boston College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Boston College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Boston College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,971. At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Boston College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $103,937, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Boston College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston College is located in Chestnut Hill, MA in a city: small setting. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

