Rice vs Swarthmore
How Rice and Swarthmore stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Rice | Swarthmore | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 8% | 7.4% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1510-1580 | 1450-1560 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | TX | PA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $83,393 | $88,696 |
| Average cost after aid | $20,587 | $22,469 |
| Supplemental essays | 3 | 2 |
- Swarthmore is harder to get into than Rice (7.4% versus 8%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Rice is usually the cheaper option ($20,587 versus $22,469 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Rice asks for more supplemental writing (3 essays versus 2), 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.
Rice vs Swarthmore FAQ
Is Rice or Swarthmore harder to get into?
Swarthmore is harder to get into, admitting about 7.4% of applicants versus 8% at Rice.
Is Rice or Swarthmore cheaper?
After financial aid, Rice is usually cheaper, about $20,587 per year on average versus $22,469 at Swarthmore.
See your real chances at Rice and Swarthmore.
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