College Comparison
Boston College vs Swarthmore College
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
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
15,432
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
10,314
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
16.4%
7.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1440–1540
1490–1560
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$60
Total Applicants
35,037
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,866
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$39,866
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$62,950
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,950
$58,928
Room & Board
$18,916
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,971
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$80,257
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Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston College is $39,866 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $21,180 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston College typically score between 1440-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Swarthmore College, the typical SAT range is 1490-1560. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. Swarthmore 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 Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Boston College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $103,937, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College 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. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.