Occidental vs TCU
How Occidental and TCU stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Occidental | TCU | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 45% | 44% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1290-1470 | 1200-1400 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | CA | TX |
| Sticker price (per year) | $80,362 | $83,662 |
| Average cost after aid | $48,400 | $39,005 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- TCU is harder to get into than Occidental (44% versus 45%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, TCU is usually the cheaper option ($39,005 versus $48,400 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- TCU 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.
Occidental vs TCU FAQ
Is Occidental or TCU harder to get into?
TCU is harder to get into, admitting about 44% of applicants versus 45% at Occidental.
Is Occidental or TCU cheaper?
After financial aid, TCU is usually cheaper, about $39,005 per year on average versus $48,400 at Occidental.
See your real chances at Occidental and TCU.
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