College Comparison
Swarthmore College vs University of Chicago
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Swarthmore, PA
Chicago, IL
Total Enrollment
1,623
18,566
Undergrad Enrollment
1,623
7,598
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.5%
4.5%
Average GPA
3.93
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1560
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$75
Total Applicants
13,065
43,612
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,236
$81,288
Avg Net Price
$18,686
$18,967
Tuition (In-State)
$58,928
$61,179
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,928
$61,179
Room & Board
$20,308
$20,109
% Receiving Aid
57.0%
47.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,634
$62,300
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$91,885
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Explore by Location
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Swarthmore College is $18,686 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. Swarthmore College is $281 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Swarthmore College typically score between 1490-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%, while University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Swarthmore College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. University of Chicago offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,634. At University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.
The median earnings for Swarthmore College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,257, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago graduates. Graduates from University of Chicago tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.

