College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University 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
Pittsburgh, PA
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
15,888
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
7,377
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
7.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1500–1570
1490–1560
ACT Range
34–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
33,941
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$31,671
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$59,864
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,864
$58,928
Room & Board
$18,166
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$48,107
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$80,257
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Carnegie Mellon is in Pittsburgh, PA
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carnegie Mellon University is $31,671 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $12,985 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carnegie Mellon University typically score between 1500-1570 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.
Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 89%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carnegie Mellon University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. Carnegie Mellon University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Carnegie Mellon University, 51% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $48,107. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $114,862, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Carnegie Mellon University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Carnegie Mellon University is located in Pittsburgh, PA in a city: large setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.