College Comparison
Rice 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
Houston, TX
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
8,961
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
4,789
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.0%
7.5%
Average GPA
3.96
3.93
SAT Range
1510–1570
1490–1560
ACT Range
34–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
32,473
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$72,200
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$12,640
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$54,100
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$54,100
$58,928
Room & Board
$18,100
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,199
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
93.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,718
$80,257
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Explore by Location
Rice is in Houston, TX
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Rice University is $12,640 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Rice University is $6,046 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Rice 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.
Rice University has a graduation rate of 93%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Rice University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. Rice University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Rice University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,199. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Rice University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,718, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Rice University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Rice University is located in Houston, TX in a city: large setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

