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Colleges / PA / Swarthmore
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Swarthmore College

Private nonprofit Swarthmore, PA · Suburban · Mid-Atlantic · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
93%
Graduation Rate
$80,257
Earnings (10yr)
$23,149
Net Price
7%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an acceptance rate of just 7%, Swarthmore College is a great fit for students who are academically driven and ready to be challenged. The school attracts those who are passionate about their studies, especially in areas like Social Sciences, Computer Science and IT, Biology, and the Visual and Performing Arts. The strong emphasis on a well-rounded education means students here are not just focusing on their major but are encouraged to explore a variety of disciplines, which can lead to a richer college experience.

Looking ahead, graduates from Swarthmore can expect substantial earnings, with a median income of $80,257 ten years after they leave. This is a significant figure that reflects both the quality of education and the strong alumni network that can support career growth. The affordability aspect is also noteworthy; while college can be expensive, the net price after aid is about $23,149, which makes it more accessible for many families. This balance of cost and outcome is crucial for students considering their long-term financial futures.

In terms of financial health, students graduate with a median debt of $17,500, which is relatively manageable compared to other institutions. Those who thrive at Swarthmore tend to be self-motivated and engaged, finding ways to not only excel academically but also to make the most of the college experience through extracurricular activities and community involvement. This school cultivates a culture where hard work and curiosity can lead to both personal and professional success.

Rankings

How Swarthmore Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation93%Earnings 10yr$80KNet Price$23KRetention94%Median Debt$18KPell Grant Rate19%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$8K$0-30K$5K$30-48K$11K$48-75K$48K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%465.3%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%4912.8%MOBILITY228.61%

Cost & Financial Aid

$65,494
In-State Tuition
$65,494
Out-of-State
$23,149
Avg Net Price
$17,500
Median Debt
19%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$7,690
Family Income $0–$30K
$4,951
Family Income $30K–$48K
$11,444
Family Income $48K–$75K
$47,544
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$56,211
6 Years After Entry
$72,890
8 Years
$80,257
10 Years
0.22x
Debt-to-Earnings
62%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$56,211 6yr $72,890 8yr $80,257 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

228.61%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
4912.8%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
465.3%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$135,900
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.84
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
14.1%
Volunteering Rate
1.00
Support Ratio
Community support

Innovation

Data: Opportunity Insights Patent & Innovation Data

1.634%
Inventor Rate
28
Total Patents
6
Total Citations

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 7%
Retention Rate 94%
SAT Average 1534
ACT Midpoint 34
SAT Range 1490–1560
ACT Range 33–35
Full-Time Faculty 94%
Faculty Salary (mo) $14,961
Diversity Index 0.82
First-Gen Students 27%

Top Programs

Social Sciences 24%
Computer Science & IT 13%
Biology & Biomedical 11%
Visual & Performing Arts 7%
Engineering 7%
Mathematics & Statistics 7%
Psychology 6%
Physical Sciences 4%