AdmissionsOS Smith College vs Wellesley College
| Smith College | Wellesley College | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 21% | 14.1% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,420-1,540 | 1,460-1,560 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 32-35 | 33-35 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $27,579 | $25,496 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $86,030 | $86,290 |
| Graduation rate | 89% | 92% |
| Retention rate | 94% | 97% |
| Undergraduates | 2,544 | 2,300 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 8:1 | 7:1 |
| Setting | Northampton, MA | Wellesley, MA |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | None | None |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Smith College or Wellesley College harder to get into?
Wellesley College is more selective, with a 14.1% acceptance rate versus 21% at Smith College. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Smith College or Wellesley College?
Wellesley College has the lower average net price ($25,496 versus $27,579). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.