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Boston University vs Swarthmore College

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

14
Boston Wins
9
Tied / N/A
23
Swarthmore Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
18,248
Enrollment
1,613
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

11%
Acceptance Rate
7%
1480
SAT Average
1534
33
ACT Midpoint
34
1420-1530
SAT Range
1490-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$68,102
In-State Tuition
$65,494
$68,102
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,494
$24,402
Average Net Price
$23,149
$9,500
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,690
$9,342
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,951
$11,778
Net Price ($48-75K)
$11,444
$47,504
Net Price ($110K+)
$47,544
19%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
23%
Federal Loan Rate
11%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
93%
95%
Retention Rate
94%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
94%
$16,623
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,961
17%
First-Gen Students
27%

Student Body

65%
Female
55%
32%
White
30%
11%
Hispanic
16%
6%
Black
9%
21%
Asian
17%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.82

Outcomes

$65,655
Earnings (6yr)
$56,211
$73,661
Earnings (8yr)
$72,890
$83,238
Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$23,250
Median Debt
$17,500
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.22x
81%
Earning Above HS
62%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

201.75%
Mobility Rate
228.61%
5043.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4912.8%
400.0%
From Bottom 20%
465.3%
$126,800
Parent Median Income
$135,900

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
9.7%
Volunteering Rate
14.1%

Research (Times HE)

#59
World Rank
N/A
53.6
Teaching Score
N/A
51.9
Research Score
N/A
91.4
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Boston University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 89% grad $83,238 earnings $24,402 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Boston University is a great fit for motivated students who are ready to engage with a vibrant urban campus. It's an appealing choice for those interested in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Communications, Biology & Biomedical, or Computer Science & IT. The school’s diverse offerings attract students who are eager to explore various disciplines and prepare for dynamic careers.

After graduation, students from Boston University can expect to earn an impressive average of $83,238 within a decade. This means graduates are stepping into solid financial footing relatively quickly, which is encouraging for those considering their return on investment. With a graduation rate of 89%, it shows that students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees, paving the way for upward mobility in their careers.

When it comes to the practical side of financing your education, the net price after aid stands at approximately $24,402, which is manageable for many families. The median debt for graduates is $23,250, a figure that many could navigate effectively post-graduation. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are ready to take advantage of Boston’s resources and connections, ultimately setting themselves up for successful futures.

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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