College Comparison
Swarthmore College vs University of Pennsylvania
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Swarthmore, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
1,623
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
1,623
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.5%
5.4%
Average GPA
3.93
3.96
SAT Range
1490–1560
1510–1570
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$75
Total Applicants
13,065
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,236
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$18,686
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$58,928
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,928
$56,212
Room & Board
$20,308
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
57.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,634
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$111,371
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Explore by Location
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Swarthmore College is $18,686 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Swarthmore College is $12,543 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Swarthmore College typically score between 1490-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Penn, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Swarthmore College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Swarthmore College 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 Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for Swarthmore College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,257, compared to $111,371 for Penn graduates. Graduates from Penn 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. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

