Colby vs Swarthmore
How Colby and Swarthmore stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Colby | Swarthmore | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 7% | 7.4% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1440-1560 | 1450-1560 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | ME | PA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $89,190 | $88,696 |
| Average cost after aid | $18,341 | $22,469 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- Colby and Swarthmore are similarly selective, admitting about 7% and 7.4% of applicants.
- After aid, Colby is usually the cheaper option ($18,341 versus $22,469 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Swarthmore asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Colby vs Swarthmore FAQ
Is Colby or Swarthmore harder to get into?
Colby and Swarthmore are similarly selective, admitting about 7% and 7.4% of applicants.
Is Colby or Swarthmore cheaper?
After financial aid, Colby is usually cheaper, about $18,341 per year on average versus $22,469 at Swarthmore.
See your real chances at Colby and Swarthmore.
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