College Comparison
Reed 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
Portland, OR
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
1,358
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
1,346
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
24.6%
7.5%
Average GPA
3.80
3.93
SAT Range
1290–1520
1490–1560
ACT Range
30–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$60
Total Applicants
9,431
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$82,110
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$39,951
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$64,450
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$64,450
$58,928
Room & Board
$17,660
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
58.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$55,445
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
73.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
62.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
88.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,927
$80,257
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Explore by Location
Reed is in Portland, OR
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Reed College is $39,951 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $21,265 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Reed College typically score between 1290-1520 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.
Reed College has a graduation rate of 73%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Reed 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 Reed College, 58% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $55,445. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Reed College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,927, 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.
Reed College is located in Portland, OR in a city: large setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

