College Comparison
Southern Methodist University vs Washington and Lee University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Dallas, TX
Lexington, VA
Total Enrollment
12,116
2,241
Undergrad Enrollment
7,285
1,886
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
63.4%
14.0%
Average GPA
3.66
3.91
SAT Range
1340–1490
1430–1540
ACT Range
30–34
33–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$60
Total Applicants
15,245
8,213
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$74,076
$79,275
Avg Net Price
$41,778
$23,911
Tuition (In-State)
$55,012
$60,590
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$55,012
$60,590
Room & Board
$19,064
$18,685
% Receiving Aid
67.0%
64.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$37,520
$63,945
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
75.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$78,354
$94,810
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Explore by Location
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Washington and Lee is in Lexington, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Southern Methodist University is $41,778 per year, compared to $23,911 at Washington and Lee University. Washington and Lee University is $17,867 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Southern Methodist University typically score between 1340-1490 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Washington and Lee University, the typical SAT range is 1430-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%, while Washington and Lee University has a graduation rate of 94%. Washington and Lee University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Southern Methodist University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, while Washington and Lee University has a ratio of 7:1. Washington and Lee University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $37,520. At Washington and Lee University, 64% of students receive aid with an average grant of $63,945.
The median earnings for Southern Methodist University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $78,354, compared to $94,810 for Washington and Lee University graduates. Graduates from Washington and Lee University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting. Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, VA in a town: distant setting.

