College Comparison
Cornell 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
Ithaca, NY
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
26,793
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
7.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1500–1570
1490–1560
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$60
Total Applicants
62,993
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$58,928
Room & Board
$19,428
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$80,257
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Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $13,651 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell 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.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell 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 Cornell University, 48% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,779. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Cornell University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

