College Comparison
Duke 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
Durham, NC
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
17,499
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
6,523
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
5.7%
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
$85
$60
Total Applicants
51,795
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,563
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$34,454
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$60,435
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,435
$58,928
Room & Board
$18,128
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
43.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$65,522
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$97,800
$80,257
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Duke is in Durham, NC
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Duke University is $34,454 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $15,768 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Duke 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.
Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Duke University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Duke University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. Duke University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Duke University, 43% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $65,522. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Duke University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $97,800, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Duke University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Duke University is located in Durham, NC in a city: large setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.