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College Comparison

Stanford University vs Williams 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

Williams College

Williamstown, MA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricStanfordWilliams
Acceptance Rate3.9%wins10.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1580wins1470–1560
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins33–35
Tuition (Out-of-State)$62,484wins$64,860
Avg Net Price$12,136wins$14,852
Median Earnings (10 yr)$124,080wins$88,665
Graduation Rate92.8%96.5%wins
Retention Rate97.8%wins96.5%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:16:1
Total Enrollment7,841wins2,060

Verdict

Based on the data above, Stanford edges out Williams on 8 of 9 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

Williams Strengths

  • Graduation Rate: 96.5%

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