Skip to content
CollegeRanker

Compare

Swarthmore College vs Wellesley College

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

20
Swarthmore Wins
7
Tied / N/A
15
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
1,613
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

7%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1534
SAT Average
1520
34
ACT Midpoint
33
1490-1560
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$65,494
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$65,494
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$23,149
Average Net Price
$25,496
$7,690
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$4,951
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$11,444
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$47,544
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
19%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
11%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

93%
Graduation Rate
91%
94%
Retention Rate
97%
94%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$14,961
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
27%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

55%
Female
N/A
30%
White
30%
16%
Hispanic
14%
9%
Black
8%
17%
Asian
26%
0.82
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$56,211
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$72,890
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$80,257
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$17,500
Median Debt
$10,000
0.22x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
62%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

228.61%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
4912.8%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
465.3%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$135,900
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.01
Friending Bias
-0.00
14.1%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

The Overviews

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.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

Sponsored

Compare Accredited Programs Accepting Applicants

Matched to high-demand fields — request info, free.

Ad