Cornell University vs Swarthmore College

Cornell University is the more selective of the two at 9%, versus 9% at Swarthmore College. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Cornell University
Most selective
9%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1550
Private · New York
Swarthmore College
Most selective
9%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1530
Private · Pennsylvania

Cornell University vs Swarthmore College: the differences that matter

How Cornell University and Swarthmore College stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Cornell University and Swarthmore College are almost equally selective (9% vs 9%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Cornell University leans more on standardized test scores, while Swarthmore College puts more weight on application essay, recommendations, extracurricular activities. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Cornell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1550 and Swarthmore College's is around 1530. Admitted students at Cornell University post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorCornell UniversitySwarthmore College
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantimportant
Standardized test scoresvery importantimportant
Application essayimportantvery important
Recommendationsimportantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesconsideredvery important
Talent / abilityconsideredvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Cornell University or Swarthmore College harder to get into?

Cornell University is harder to get into, with a 9% acceptance rate versus 9% at Swarthmore College.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Cornell University and Swarthmore College?

Cornell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1550, and Swarthmore College's is around 1530.

What are my chances at Cornell University and Swarthmore College?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.