College Comparison
Bowdoin College vs Princeton University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Brunswick, ME
Princeton, NJ
Total Enrollment
1,881
9,137
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
5,813
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
4.6%
Average GPA
3.93
4.00
SAT Range
1470–1550
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$70
Total Applicants
13,265
40,468
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$77,660
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$10,555
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$57,410
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$57,410
Room & Board
$18,488
$20,250
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$68,727
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
98.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$110,066
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Princeton is in Princeton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $10,555 at Princeton University. Princeton University is $10,231 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Princeton University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Princeton University has a graduation rate of 98%. Princeton University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bowdoin College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Princeton University has a ratio of 5:1. Princeton University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,872. At Princeton University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,727.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, compared to $110,066 for Princeton University graduates. Graduates from Princeton University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting. Princeton University is located in Princeton, NJ in a city: small setting.

