For many families, the cost of attending a highly selective private college can seem out of reach, based on the sticker price. But a recent Wall Street Journal article highlights a surprising reality: some of the nation's most prestigious liberal arts colleges, including Swarthmore, can actually cost students less than attending many public universities.

The article examines how private liberal arts colleges are expanding financial aid programs and challenging longstanding assumptions about the cost of higher education. It makes the point that, in many cases, colleges like Swarthmore are the 'best college bargains."

According to analysis from the Journal, the average financially aided student pays roughly half of what students pay at state schools, such as Penn State. While the College's published annual cost of attendance is $98,370, its average financial aid package this year is $78,118, covering almost 80% of that cost. Swarthmore covers the full cost of attendance for nearly 350 of its approximately 1,700 students.

The article also highlights the Swarthmore Tuition Guarantee, which will take effect in Fall 2027. Under the initiative, the College will provide financial aid that covers at least the full cost of tuition for domestic students whose families earn $200,000 or less annually with typical assets. Families earning above that threshold may also qualify for significant financial assistance.

"We want families who earn $200,000, $250,000, $300,000 per year and, in some cases, more to know that they may qualify for financial aid at Swarthmore," Director of Financial Aid Varo Duffins said to the Journal.

Swarthmore's commitment to affordability extends well beyond the new guarantee. The College practices need-blind admissions for domestic students and meets 100% of determined financial need for all admitted students without loans. Beyond financial aid, all students at Swarthmore receive an $800 credit to use on required course materials through the Textbook Affordability Program as well as a free SEPTA Key to use throughout the academic year. In addition, there are no hidden fees at Swarthmore, meaning everything from lab classes and campus events to student club participation and even laundry is covered in the cost of attendance.

The Journal highlights Swarthmore alongside peer institutions, which are also working to make their educational experiences accessible to a broader range of families.