College Comparison
Swarthmore College vs Vanderbilt University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Swarthmore, PA
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
1,623
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
1,623
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.5%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.93
3.93
SAT Range
1490–1560
1500–1570
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$50
Total Applicants
13,065
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,236
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$18,686
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$58,928
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,928
$58,130
Room & Board
$20,308
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
57.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,634
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Swarthmore College is $18,686 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Swarthmore College is $354 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Swarthmore College typically score between 1490-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Vanderbilt University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Swarthmore College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Vanderbilt University 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 Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Swarthmore College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,257, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt University graduates. Graduates from Vanderbilt University 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. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

