College Comparison
Stanford 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
Stanford, CA
Swarthmore, PA
Total Enrollment
18,625
1,623
Undergrad Enrollment
7,904
1,623
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
7.5%
Average GPA
3.96
3.93
SAT Range
1510–1580
1490–1560
ACT Range
34–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$90
$60
Total Applicants
57,326
13,065
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,018
$79,236
Avg Net Price
$26,000
$18,686
Tuition (In-State)
$57,693
$58,928
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$57,693
$58,928
Room & Board
$21,325
$20,308
% Receiving Aid
61.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,755
$61,634
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
78.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$124,080
$80,257
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Stanford is in Stanford, CA
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Stanford University is $26,000 per year, compared to $18,686 at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore College is $7,314 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Stanford 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.
Stanford University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%. Stanford University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Stanford University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Swarthmore College has a ratio of 7:1. Stanford University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Stanford University, 61% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,755. At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,634.
The median earnings for Stanford University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $124,080, compared to $80,257 for Swarthmore College graduates. Graduates from Stanford University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA in a suburb: large setting. Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting.

