College Comparison
Northwestern 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
Evanston, IL
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
23,856
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
7.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1510–1570
1490–1560
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
49,474
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$58,928
Room & Board
$21,126
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$80,257
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $8,457 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 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.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northwestern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. Northwestern University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $64,429. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Northwestern University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

