College Comparison
Grinnell College vs Southern Methodist University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Grinnell, IA
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
1,788
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
63.4%
Average GPA
3.89
3.66
SAT Range
1410–1540
1340–1490
ACT Range
31–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$60
Total Applicants
9,758
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$55,012
Room & Board
$16,842
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Grinnell College is $26,170 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Grinnell College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Grinnell College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Grinnell College, 94% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $49,077. At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Southern Methodist University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

