Swarthmore College vs Duke University

Swarthmore, PA — Durham, NC

Metric
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, PA
Duke University
Durham, NC
Location Swarthmore, PA Durham, NC
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 1,613 6,442
Acceptance Rate 7.5% 5.7%
SAT Average 1,534 1,548
In-State Tuition $65,494 $68,758
Out-of-State Tuition $65,494 $68,758
Avg Net Price $23,149 $29,612
Median Debt at Graduation $17,500 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 93.2% 96.3%
Retention Rate 94.0% 97.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $56,211 $85,792
Median Earnings (10 yr) $80,257 $97,800
Loan Repayment Rate 25800.0% 124100.0%

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

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Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, PA
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Duke University
Durham, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Swarthmore College and Duke University compare?
Swarthmore College (Swarthmore, PA) has an acceptance rate of 7.5%, in-state tuition of $65,494, and median 10-year earnings of $80,257. Duke University (Durham, NC) has an acceptance rate of 5.7%, in-state tuition of $68,758, and median 10-year earnings of $97,800.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Swarthmore College or Duke University?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $80,257. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Swarthmore College or Duke University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Swarthmore College is the more affordable option at $23,149 per year versus $29,612.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 93.2%.

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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