College Comparison
Swarthmore College vs Union College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Swarthmore, PA
Schenectady, NY
Total Enrollment
1,623
2,065
Undergrad Enrollment
1,623
2,065
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.5%
43.9%
Average GPA
3.93
3.70
SAT Range
1490–1560
1310–1480
ACT Range
33–35
29–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$60
Total Applicants
13,065
8,210
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,236
$80,613
Avg Net Price
$18,686
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$58,928
$63,603
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,928
$63,603
Room & Board
$20,308
$17,010
% Receiving Aid
57.0%
96.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,634
$42,534
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
84.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
80.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
90.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$88,604
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Explore by Location
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Union is in Schenectady, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Swarthmore College is $18,686 per year, compared to $36,000 at Union College. Swarthmore College is $17,314 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Swarthmore College typically score between 1490-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Union College, the typical SAT range is 1310-1480. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Union College has a graduation rate of 84%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Swarthmore College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Union College has a ratio of 9:1. 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 Union College, 96% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,534.
The median earnings for Swarthmore College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,257, compared to $88,604 for Union College graduates. Graduates from Union College 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. Union College is located in Schenectady, NY in a city: small setting.