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Boston College vs Swarthmore College

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

12
Boston Wins
9
Tied / N/A
25
Swarthmore Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
10,085
Enrollment
1,613
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

16%
Acceptance Rate
7%
1507
SAT Average
1534
34
ACT Midpoint
34
1440-1540
SAT Range
1490-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$70,702
In-State Tuition
$65,494
$70,702
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,494
$41,704
Average Net Price
$23,149
$4,284
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,690
$7,304
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,951
$13,112
Net Price ($48-75K)
$11,444
$60,308
Net Price ($110K+)
$47,544
13%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
30%
Federal Loan Rate
11%

Academics

91%
Graduation Rate
93%
96%
Retention Rate
94%
61%
Full-Time Faculty
94%
$18,131
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,961
13%
First-Gen Students
27%

Student Body

52%
Female
55%
57%
White
30%
13%
Hispanic
16%
5%
Black
9%
11%
Asian
17%
0.64
Diversity Index
0.82

Outcomes

$85,717
Earnings (6yr)
$56,211
$89,620
Earnings (8yr)
$72,890
$103,937
Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$19,000
Median Debt
$17,500
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.22x
88%
Earning Above HS
62%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

160.29%
Mobility Rate
228.61%
5621.1%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4912.8%
285.2%
From Bottom 20%
465.3%
$168,400
Parent Median Income
$135,900

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
6.7%
Volunteering Rate
14.1%

Research (Times HE)

#161
World Rank
N/A
40.1
Teaching Score
N/A
33.6
Research Score
N/A
78
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · Private nonprofit

16% accept 91% grad $103,937 earnings $41,704 net

With an acceptance rate of just 16%, Boston College attracts students who are academically driven and ready to engage deeply with their studies. The school excels in areas like Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, and Psychology, among others. If you’re looking for a community that values both rigorous academics and a strong sense of tradition, this is a place where you can thrive.

Once you graduate, you can expect to make, on average, $103,937 after ten years in the workforce. That’s a solid figure that speaks to the value of a degree from Boston College. Students who study here often find themselves well-prepared for the job market, which is crucial as we consider our financial futures. The blend of a strong curriculum and a supportive network can lead to successful career paths.

Looking at the financial aspects, the net price after aid is around $41,704, and students typically graduate with a median debt of $19,000. This debt load is manageable for many, especially considering the earning potential after graduation. Boston College tends to attract students who are ready to invest in their education and take full advantage of the opportunities available, paving the way for both personal and professional growth.

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · Private nonprofit

7% accept 93% grad $80,257 earnings $23,149 net

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.

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