College Comparison
Occidental College 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
Los Angeles, CA
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
1,881
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
44.2%
7.5%
Average GPA
3.70
3.93
SAT Range
1380–1520
1490–1560
ACT Range
31–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$70
$60
Total Applicants
6,461
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,250
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$39,329
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$59,970
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,970
$58,928
Room & Board
$20,280
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
75.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$36,400
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
81.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
90.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,951
$80,257
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Explore by Location
Occidental is in Los Angeles, CA
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Occidental College is $39,329 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $20,643 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Occidental College typically score between 1380-1520 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.
Occidental College has a graduation rate of 81%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Occidental College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, 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 Occidental College, 75% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $36,400. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Occidental College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,951, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Swarthmore College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Occidental College is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.