College Comparison
Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
9,728
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
6,577
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
48.0%
7.5%
Average GPA
3.74
3.93
SAT Range
1350–1490
1490–1560
ACT Range
31–33
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$70
$60
Total Applicants
18,970
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$76,773
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$50,959
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$56,880
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$56,880
$58,928
Room & Board
$19,893
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
71.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$28,368
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
85.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$109,183
$80,257
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Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Santa Clara University is $50,959 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $32,273 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Santa Clara University typically score between 1350-1490 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.
Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 90%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Santa Clara University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, 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 Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $28,368. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Santa Clara University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $109,183, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.