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Southern Methodist University and Abilene Christian University are both private nonprofit institutions — Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX and Abilene Christian University in Abilene, 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.
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.
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.
| Factor | Southern Methodist University | Abilene Christian University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 63.3% | 66.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1340–1490 |
| 1070–1270 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 30–34 | 22–28 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,277 | 3,195 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $67,040/year | $44,200/year |
| Average net price after aid | $40,892 | $26,182 |
| Graduation rate | 84.3% | 59.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $78,354 | $55,736 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 11.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Dallas, TX | Abilene, TX |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (63.3% vs 66.0%). 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 Southern Methodist University and Abilene Christian University
Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63.3%; Abilene Christian University is around 66.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Southern Methodist University tuition is $67,040/year. Abilene Christian University is $44,200/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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