College Comparison
Lehigh 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
Bethlehem, PA
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
7,692
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
5,911
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
25.9%
7.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1370–1500
1490–1560
ACT Range
31–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
20,396
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$76,190
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$33,549
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$58,970
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,970
$58,928
Room & Board
$17,220
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
65.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$46,731
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
79.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$105,584
$80,257
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Explore by Location
Lehigh is in Bethlehem, PA
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Lehigh University is $33,549 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $14,863 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Lehigh University typically score between 1370-1500 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.
Lehigh University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Lehigh University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, 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 Lehigh University, 65% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $46,731. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Lehigh University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $105,584, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College 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. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

