College Comparison
Lehigh University 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
Bethlehem, PA
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
7,692
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
5,911
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
25.9%
63.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.66
SAT Range
1370–1500
1340–1490
ACT Range
31–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
20,396
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$76,190
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$33,549
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$58,970
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,970
$55,012
Room & Board
$17,220
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
65.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$46,731
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
79.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$105,584
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Lehigh is in Bethlehem, PA
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Lehigh University is $33,549 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Lehigh University is $8,229 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Lehigh University typically score between 1370-1500 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.
Lehigh University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Lehigh University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Lehigh University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Lehigh University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Lehigh University, 65% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $46,731. At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Lehigh University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $105,584, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Lehigh University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Lehigh University is located in Bethlehem, PA in a city: small setting. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

