Loading…
College comparison
Pomona vs Swarthmore
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Pomona Claremont, CA |  Swarthmore Swarthmore, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance ratePomona College is more selective | 7% | 7% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1490–1560 | 1490–1560 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 1,666 | 1,613 |
| Avg net price | $19,285 | $23,149 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Swarthmore reports higher median earnings | $77,779 | $80,257 |
| Graduation rate | 93% | 92% |
| Median debt | $11,782 | $17,500 |
| Economic mobility | 2.0% | 2.3% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Pomona vs Swarthmore: how they compare
Two liberal arts colleges with similar selectivity differ in financial health, student outcomes, and campus culture.
By the numbers Both schools are equally selective (7% acceptance) with matching SAT ranges (1490–1560). Outcomes are strong but distinct: Swarthmore’s 10-year median earnings are slightly higher ($80k vs. $78k), and it produces future STEM PhDs at a notably higher rate (15.7 yield vs. 11.3). Pomona, however, delivers greater financial value, with a lower average net price ($19k vs. $23k) and a higher 4.0× earnings-per-dollar value multiplier versus Swarthmore’s 3.5×. Swarthmore excels in economic mobility (229% rate vs. 195%). A critical divergence is institutional financial health: Pomona scores a robust 2.9/3 with the DOE, while Swarthmore scores a concerning 1.7/3. Graduation rates are virtually identical (93% vs. 92%).
Where they overlap They share a commitment to a rigorous, intimate liberal arts education in a suburban setting. Both attract academically driven students and support strong postgraduate outcomes.
How they differ The cultures and locations present a contrast. Swarthmore is often described as more intense and academically demanding. Pomona’s culture is noted for emphasizing a healthier work-life balance. Geographically, Swarthmore is near Philadelphia, while Pomona is near Los Angeles.
Who each suits Swarthmore suits the student who thrives under high-pressure academics and values a historic East Coast setting. Pomona is ideal for the student who seeks top-tier rigor with a balanced, sunny California collegiate experience and who may prioritize a university with stronger financial health.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Pomona College or Swarthmore College harder to get into?
- Pomona College is more selective: Pomona College's acceptance rate is approximately 7% and Swarthmore College's is approximately 7% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Pomona College vs Swarthmore College?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1490–1560 at Pomona College and 1490–1560 at Swarthmore College. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.