Southern Methodist University vs Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Dallas, TX — Troy, NY

Metric
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
Location Dallas, TX Troy, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,277 5,714
Acceptance Rate 63.3% 63.5%
SAT Average 1,428 1,456
In-State Tuition $67,040 $64,081
Out-of-State Tuition $67,040 $64,081
Avg Net Price $40,892 $36,228
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $23,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 83.8% 83.4%
Retention Rate 90.5% 90.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $65,556 $83,054
Median Earnings (10 yr) $78,354 $102,051
Loan Repayment Rate 131300.0% 189900.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Southern Methodist University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute compare?
Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) has an acceptance rate of 63.3%, in-state tuition of $67,040, and median 10-year earnings of $78,354. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, NY) has an acceptance rate of 63.5%, in-state tuition of $64,081, and median 10-year earnings of $102,051.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Southern Methodist University or Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,051 vs $78,354. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southern Methodist University or Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the more affordable option at $36,228 per year versus $40,892.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Southern Methodist University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.8% vs 83.4%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025