College Comparison
Colgate 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
Hamilton, NY
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
3,211
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
3,193
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
13.9%
7.5%
Average GPA
3.79
3.93
SAT Range
1430–1540
1490–1560
ACT Range
33–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$60
Total Applicants
20,682
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,514
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$29,107
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$63,904
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,904
$58,928
Room & Board
$17,610
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
43.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,334
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$85,139
$80,257
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Explore by Location
Colgate is in Hamilton, NY
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colgate University is $29,107 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $10,421 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colgate University typically score between 1430-1540 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.
Colgate University has a graduation rate of 91%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colgate University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, 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 Colgate University, 43% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,334. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Colgate University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $85,139, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Colgate University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Colgate University is located in Hamilton, NY in a rural: distant setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

