College Comparison
Princeton 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
Princeton, NJ
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
9,137
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
5,813
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
4.6%
7.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1510–1580
1490–1560
ACT Range
34–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$70
$60
Total Applicants
40,468
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,660
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$10,555
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$57,410
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$57,410
$58,928
Room & Board
$20,250
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
67.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,727
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
98.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$110,066
$80,257
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Princeton is in Princeton, NJ
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Princeton University is $10,555 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Princeton University is $8,131 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Princeton University typically score between 1510-1580 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.
Princeton University has a graduation rate of 98%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. 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 Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. 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 Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Princeton University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $110,066, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College 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. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

