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Abilene Christian University and Southern Methodist University are both private nonprofit institutions — Abilene Christian University in Abilene, TX and Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Abilene, TX · Private
Acceptance rate: 66.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,195
Tuition: $44,200/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 59.0%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Abilene, TX with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
Dallas, TX · Private
Acceptance rate: 63.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,277
Tuition: $67,040/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 84.3%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Dallas, TX with published program strength in Business and marketing and Social sciences.
| Factor | Abilene Christian University | Southern Methodist University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 66.0% | 63.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1070–1270 |
| 1340–1490 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 22–28 | 30–34 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 3,195 | 7,277 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $44,200/year | $67,040/year |
| Average net price after aid | $26,182 | $40,892 |
| Graduation rate | 59.0% | 84.3% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $55,736 | $78,354 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Abilene, TX | Dallas, TX |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (66.0% vs 63.3%). Abilene Christian University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($26,182 vs $40,892). Southern Methodist University reports the higher graduation rate (84.3% vs 59.0%). Southern Methodist University is the larger undergraduate campus (7,277 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Abilene Christian University and Southern Methodist University
Abilene Christian University has an acceptance rate of 66.0%; Southern Methodist University is around 63.3%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Abilene Christian University tuition is $44,200/year. Southern Methodist University is $67,040/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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