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College Comparison

Stanford University vs Dartmouth College: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

School

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricStanfordDartmouth
Acceptance Rate3.9%wins6.2%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1580wins1500–1570
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins33–35
Tuition (Out-of-State)$62,484wins$65,739
Avg Net Price$12,136wins$28,619
Median Earnings (10 yr)$124,080wins$97,434
Graduation Rate92.8%96.0%wins
Retention Rate97.8%wins97.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins7:1
Total Enrollment7,841wins4,367

Verdict

Based on the data above, Stanford edges out Dartmouth on 9 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.

Stanford Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 3.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $62,484

Dartmouth Strengths

  • Graduation Rate: 96.0%

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