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Swarthmore College and University of Pennsylvania are both private nonprofit institutions — Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, PA and University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. 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.
Swarthmore, PA · Private
Acceptance rate: 7.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,613
Tuition: $65,494/year
Student-faculty ratio: 7.0:1
Graduation rate: 92.3%
Top programs: Social sciences, Computer science, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Swarthmore, PA with published program strength in Social sciences and Computer science.
Philadelphia, PA · Private
Acceptance rate: 5.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 10,650
Tuition: $68,686/year
Student-faculty ratio: 8.0:1
Graduation rate: 96.5%
Top programs: Social sciences, Biological sciences, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Philadelphia, PA with published program strength in Social sciences and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Swarthmore College | University of Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 7.5% | 5.4% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1490–1560 |
| 1510–1570 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 33–35 | 34–36 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,613 | 10,650 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $65,494/year | $68,686/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,149 | $28,699 |
| Graduation rate | 92.3% | 96.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $80,257 | $111,371 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Swarthmore, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Computer science, Biological sciences | Social sciences, Biological sciences, Health professions |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (7.5% vs 5.4%). Swarthmore College has a lower average net price after grant aid ($23,149 vs $28,699). University of Pennsylvania reports the higher graduation rate (96.5% vs 92.3%). University of Pennsylvania is the larger undergraduate campus (10,650 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 Swarthmore College and University of Pennsylvania
Swarthmore College has an acceptance rate of 7.5%; University of Pennsylvania is around 5.4%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Swarthmore College tuition is $65,494/year. University of Pennsylvania is $68,686/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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