College Comparison
Swarthmore College vs Washington and Lee 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
Lexington, VA
Total Enrollment
1,623
2,241
Undergrad Enrollment
1,623
1,886
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.5%
14.0%
Average GPA
3.93
3.91
SAT Range
1490–1560
1430–1540
ACT Range
33–35
33–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$60
Total Applicants
13,065
8,213
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,236
$79,275
Avg Net Price
$18,686
$23,911
Tuition (In-State)
$58,928
$60,590
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,928
$60,590
Room & Board
$20,308
$18,685
% Receiving Aid
57.0%
64.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,634
$63,945
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$94,810
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Explore by Location
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
Washington and Lee is in Lexington, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Swarthmore College is $18,686 per year, compared to $23,911 at Washington and Lee University. Swarthmore College is $5,225 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Swarthmore College typically score between 1490-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Washington and Lee University, the typical SAT range is 1430-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Washington and Lee University has a graduation rate of 94%. Washington and Lee University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Swarthmore College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Washington and Lee University has a ratio of 7:1. Washington and Lee University 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 Washington and Lee University, 64% of students receive aid with an average grant of $63,945.
The median earnings for Swarthmore College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,257, compared to $94,810 for Washington and Lee University graduates. Graduates from Washington and Lee 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. Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, VA in a town: distant setting.

