Northwestern vs Swarthmore
How Northwestern and Swarthmore stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Northwestern | Swarthmore | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 7% | 7.4% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1500-1570 | 1450-1560 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | IL | PA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $84,653 | $88,696 |
| Average cost after aid | $29,200 | $22,469 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 2 |
- Northwestern and Swarthmore are similarly selective, admitting about 7% and 7.4% of applicants.
- After aid, Swarthmore is usually the cheaper option ($22,469 versus $29,200 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Northwestern vs Swarthmore FAQ
Is Northwestern or Swarthmore harder to get into?
Northwestern and Swarthmore are similarly selective, admitting about 7% and 7.4% of applicants.
Is Northwestern or Swarthmore cheaper?
After financial aid, Swarthmore is usually cheaper, about $22,469 per year on average versus $29,200 at Northwestern.
See your real chances at Northwestern and Swarthmore.
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