College Comparison
Princeton 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
Princeton, NJ
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
9,137
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
5,813
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
4.6%
63.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.66
SAT Range
1510–1580
1340–1490
ACT Range
34–35
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$70
$60
Total Applicants
40,468
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,660
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$10,555
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$57,410
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$57,410
$55,012
Room & Board
$20,250
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
67.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,727
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
98.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$110,066
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Princeton is in Princeton, NJ
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Princeton University is $10,555 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Princeton University is $31,223 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Princeton University typically score between 1510-1580 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.
Princeton University has a graduation rate of 98%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Princeton University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Princeton University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Princeton University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Princeton University, 67% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,727. At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Princeton University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $110,066, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Princeton University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Princeton University is located in Princeton, NJ in a city: small setting. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

