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Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 75/100 | ROI Score: -71 | Affordability Score: 35/100

Tuition (In-State): $65,920 | Out-of-State: $65,920

Acceptance Rate: 29.4% | Graduation Rate: 83.6% | Retention Rate: 92.2%

Median Earnings (10yr): $75,217 | Median Debt: $25,000

SAT Average: 1396

Student Body Size: 1,359 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 14.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 49.3%

Average Faculty Salary: $12,083/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Bryn Mawr College is $65,920 per year, which is 67% above the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $65,920/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $263,680 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Bryn Mawr College:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $11,017/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $18,457/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $17,262/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $19,330/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $40,085/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $54,903/year, paying just 17% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Bryn Mawr College has an acceptance rate of 29.4%, placing it in the Very Selective (20–35%) category. This means roughly 1,154 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1396, 32% above the national average. This reflects a strong academic student body.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

83.6% of students at Bryn Mawr College complete their degree, 35% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.

First-year retention rate: 92.2% (14% above the national average). A retention rate above 90% signals high student satisfaction and strong first-year experience programs.

Graduates of Bryn Mawr College earn a median salary of $75,217 ten years after enrollment, 84% above the national average. This represents a $40,217/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $1,206,510 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $25,000, 16% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $271/month, with a total repayment of $32,520 (including $7,520 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.33x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Bryn Mawr College pays for itself in approximately 7 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

14.8% of students at Bryn Mawr College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 55% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.

49.3% of students take federal loans, 5% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $12,083/month, 38% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Bryn Mawr College enrolls 1,359 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 72/100 (higher = more diverse). Bryn Mawr College has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.

Student body composition: White 51%, Hispanic 9%, Black 5%, Asian 12%.

Bryn Mawr College: A Highly Selective, Academically Rigorous Institution with Strong Earnings Potential

Report Card: Overall Grade C

Bryn Mawr College receives an overall grade of C based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: A-
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: B+
  • Affordability: D

College Analysis

Bryn Mawr College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Bryn Mawr, PA with approximately 1,359 students. Bryn Mawr College boasts a strong academic reputation with a high graduation rate and robust earnings potential. The college offers a highly selective admissions process, with a low acceptance rate of 29.43%. Graduates of Bryn Mawr College enjoy a median earnings of $75,217 ten years after graduation, indicating a good return on investment.

The Verdict: Is Bryn Mawr College Worth It?

Bryn Mawr College presents a complex value proposition. With an out-of-state tuition of $65,920 and median 10-year earnings of $75,217, the immediate financial return appears modest, especially when considering the median debt of $25,000. The ROI score of -71 further suggests a significant gap between the cost of education and early-to-mid-career earnings. However, this analysis often overlooks the long-term value of a liberal arts education, particularly from an institution like Bryn Mawr, which emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and graduate school preparation. Many Bryn Mawr graduates pursue advanced degrees, which can lead to substantially higher lifetime earnings not fully captured in median salary data. The debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, with the median debt potentially being paid off within 2-3 years of entering the workforce, assuming a starting salary aligned with the median earnings. While the sticker price is high, the quality of education, strong alumnae network, and preparation for high-earning professions (especially post-graduate) can make it a worthwhile investment for students who leverage its resources effectively and pursue careers that benefit from its rigorous academic foundation. It's not a straightforward financial bargain, but for the right student, it can be a valuable investment in long-term career and intellectual capital.

Return on Investment

While the degree from Bryn Mawr College is highly valued, the high cost of tuition and debt may not make it the best ROI for all students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Bryn Mawr College: $25,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $284/month. Total repaid: $34,080 ($9,080 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.6 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $34,080.

Strengths

  • Highly selective admissions process
  • Strong earnings potential
  • Focus on women's education and empowerment

Weaknesses

  • High tuition costs
  • Limited diversity in the student body
  • High median debt upon graduation

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1396. Retention Rate: 92.2%.

Bryn Mawr's academic reputation is stellar, particularly renowned for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum and its commitment to undergraduate research. The college excels in fields like Classics, English, History, Psychology, and Political Science, consistently producing graduates who go on to top-tier graduate programs and influential careers. The student-faculty ratio is exceptionally low, around 7:1, meaning students receive highly personalized attention from faculty who are leaders in their fields. While specific faculty salary data isn't provided, the caliber of scholars at Bryn Mawr suggests a highly competitive compensation, attracting top talent. Research opportunities are abundant, with many students engaging in independent research projects, often presenting their work at conferences or publishing alongside faculty. The unique 'Bryn Mawr/Haverford/Swarthmore/UPenn' consortium allows students to cross-register for courses at these esteemed institutions, vastly expanding academic options. The Honors program offers a challenging path for high-achieving students, culminating in a senior thesis. Study abroad is strongly encouraged, with a wide array of programs available globally, often integrated with academic coursework. Academic support is robust, including the Writing Center, Quantitative Skills Center, and dedicated academic advising to ensure students can navigate the demanding curriculum.

Financial Aid Guide for Bryn Mawr College

Pell Grant recipients: 14.8%. Students taking federal loans: 49.3%.

Bryn Mawr is committed to making its education accessible through generous financial aid. As a need-blind institution, they evaluate applicants without regard to their ability to pay. The college meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, both domestic and international. This means that if you are admitted and your family demonstrates a certain level of need, Bryn Mawr will provide the necessary grants, scholarships, and potentially work-study to cover the full cost of attendance. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the total cost of attendance (tuition, fees, room, and board) was approximately $82,000. For families with annual incomes below $60,000, Bryn Mawr aims to provide aid that eliminates the need for parent contributions. For families with incomes between $60,000 and $120,000, aid packages typically include significant grants and scholarships, often covering more than half of the cost. Work-study opportunities are available, offering students a chance to earn money through on-campus employment, typically ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 per academic year. Scholarship tips include applying for external scholarships, as Bryn Mawr's aid is primarily need-based, though some merit scholarships may exist. Negotiating aid is generally not a primary focus at Bryn Mawr, as their commitment is to meet full demonstrated need. However, if there are significant changes in a family's financial circumstances, they encourage open communication with the financial aid office.

Hidden Costs at Bryn Mawr College

  • Room and Board: While tuition is listed, the comprehensive cost including room and board for the 2023-2024 academic year was approximately $82,000, with room and board alone being around $20,000.
  • Textbooks and Supplies: Students should budget an estimated $1,000 to $1,500 per year for textbooks, course materials, and other academic supplies.
  • Personal Expenses: This includes items like toiletries, laundry, entertainment, and travel, which can range from $1,500 to $3,000 annually.
  • Health Insurance: If a student does not have adequate health insurance, Bryn Mawr's student health insurance plan costs approximately $3,000-$4,000 per year.
  • Transportation: While Philadelphia is accessible by train, regular travel costs for visiting home or exploring the city can add up, potentially $500-$1,000+ per year depending on travel habits.
  • Technology Fees: While not always explicitly itemized, there may be incidental technology-related fees or costs associated with necessary software or hardware upgrades, estimated at $200-$500 annually.
  • Activity Fees: Some student organizations or events may have associated fees for participation or special trips, which can vary widely but might add a few hundred dollars per year.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Bryn Mawr College, a women's liberal arts institution, cultivates a strong network of alumnae with a significant presence in academia, non-profit sectors, and various professional fields. While specific recruitment data from major employers is not publicly detailed, the college's emphasis on critical thinking, research, and communication skills prepares graduates for a wide array of roles. Alumni often pursue advanced degrees, with strong graduate school placement rates in fields like law, medicine, and humanities. Notable alumni include Nobel laureate Gertrude B. Elion, former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, and numerous academics and leaders in the arts and sciences. The career services office at Bryn Mawr is known for its personalized approach, offering robust advising, networking events, and resources to help students explore career paths and secure internships. Internship pipelines are often facilitated through alumnae connections and dedicated programs, allowing students to gain experience in organizations such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, various research institutions, and policy think tanks. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong inclination towards the Northeast corridor, particularly in the greater Philadelphia area, New York City, and Washington D.C., reflecting the school's location and the concentration of industries in these regions. Graduates are also found in international organizations and academic institutions globally, underscoring the broad reach of a Bryn Mawr education.

Campus Life & Culture at Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr attracts a diverse and intellectually engaged student body, with a significant percentage of students coming from outside Pennsylvania and across the globe. Students who thrive here are typically independent thinkers, passionate about learning, and eager to engage in thoughtful dialogue and social activism. The college fosters an environment where students feel empowered to challenge norms and pursue their academic and personal goals.

Bryn Mawr's campus culture is deeply rooted in its identity as a women's college, fostering a strong sense of community, intellectual curiosity, and feminist empowerment. The 'Mawr' vibe is one of engaged scholarship and spirited discussion, often spilling out of classrooms and into common spaces. Social life is largely campus-centered, with students organizing events, lectures, and film screenings. While there isn't a traditional Greek life system, the college has a unique system of 'houses' (like the historic Rho, Delta, and M.I.T. houses) that function as social and residential hubs, offering a strong sense of belonging and tradition. Residential life is a cornerstone, with most students living on campus throughout their four years. The beautiful, historic campus, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, provides a picturesque setting for student life, with iconic buildings like Taylor Hall and the Cloister. Students often gather in the Campus Center for casual meetups, study sessions, and events. While Bryn Mawr is a women's college, it has strong ties with nearby co-ed Haverford College, allowing for cross-registration and social events, offering a broader social landscape. Athletics are Division III, with a focus on participation and school spirit, particularly in sports like lacrosse, soccer, and basketball. The surrounding town of Bryn Mawr offers charming shops and cafes, and Philadelphia is a short train ride away, providing ample opportunities for off-campus exploration and entertainment.

Campus Highlights

  • The historic, Olmsted-designed campus with its stunning architecture and arboretum-like grounds.
  • The strong tradition of undergraduate research and close faculty mentorship.
  • The unique residential 'houses' that foster a deep sense of community and belonging.
  • The robust academic consortium with Haverford, Swarthmore, and UPenn, offering unparalleled course selection.
  • A vibrant feminist intellectual tradition that permeates campus life and academic discourse.
  • The close proximity to Philadelphia, providing access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
  • The emphasis on critical thinking, social justice, and empowering women leaders.

Location & Regional Advantages

Bryn Mawr College's location in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and strategic proximity to major urban centers. The immediate area provides a high quality of life with tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a generally safe environment, contributing to a focused academic experience. While the local job market is not as robust as a major metropolis, the college is situated within the affluent Main Line suburbs of Philadelphia, offering a lower cost of living compared to the city center itself, though still higher than national averages. The true geographic advantage lies in its accessibility to Philadelphia, a major hub for healthcare (e.g., Penn Medicine, Jefferson Health), education (e.g., University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University), and a growing tech and life sciences sector. Furthermore, Bryn Mawr is well-positioned within the Northeast corridor, with relatively easy access via train to New York City, a global center for finance, media, and arts, and Washington D.C., a hub for government, policy, and non-profit organizations. This proximity allows students and alumnae to tap into diverse internship and career opportunities across a wide spectrum of industries, while the campus itself provides a more serene and academically conducive environment. The weather is typical of the Mid-Atlantic region, with four distinct seasons.

How to Get Into Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr is a highly selective institution, and admission is competitive. While they offer Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) options, there isn't a significant advantage to applying ED over EA in terms of admission rates, as the college prioritizes finding the right fit. The admissions committee looks for students who demonstrate strong academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and a commitment to social justice and feminist values. Successful applicants typically have a GPA well above 3.7, often in the 3.9-4.0 range, with rigorous coursework (AP, IB, honors). While SAT/ACT scores are not required for the current application cycle, historically, admitted students had very high scores. Essays are crucial; focus on showcasing your unique voice, intellectual passions, and how you would contribute to Bryn Mawr's community. Topics that explore your engagement with feminist ideas, your intellectual journey, or your commitment to service often resonate. Demonstrated interest is considered, so engage with the college through virtual or in-person information sessions, campus tours, and by connecting with admissions counselors. The application deadline for Early Decision and Early Action is typically November 1st, and Regular Decision is around January 15th. Aim to submit your application well before the deadlines to ensure all materials are processed smoothly.

How Bryn Mawr College Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Swarthmore College, Wellesley College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College

Advantages

  • Strong emphasis on undergraduate research and close faculty mentorship.
  • Deeply ingrained and supportive alumnae network, particularly in academia and non-profits.
  • Unique focus on women's leadership development and intellectual rigor.

Disadvantages

  • Higher sticker price compared to some public liberal arts institutions.
  • Smaller overall student body size may offer fewer diverse social and extracurricular options compared to larger universities.

Best For

  • Prospective students should consider the high cost of tuition, which may not be affordable for all.
  • The college's focus on women's education may not be the best fit for male students.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a highly selective, academically rigorous institution with strong earnings potential should consider alternatives with lower tuition costs.
  • Students seeking a more diverse student body may want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bryn Mawr College

How much does it cost to attend Bryn Mawr College?

In-state tuition at Bryn Mawr College is $65,920 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $65,920 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $25,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Bryn Mawr College?

Bryn Mawr College has an acceptance rate of 29.4%.

What is the graduation rate at Bryn Mawr College?

Bryn Mawr College has a graduation rate of 83.6%.

How much do Bryn Mawr College graduates earn?

The median earnings for Bryn Mawr College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,217. With median debt of $25,000, graduates earn roughly 3.0x their debt level annually.

How big is Bryn Mawr College?

Bryn Mawr College has approximately 1,359 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Bryn Mawr, PA and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Bryn Mawr College worth the cost?

Bryn Mawr College has an ROI score of -71 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $65,920 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $75,217, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Bryn Mawr College located?

Bryn Mawr College is located in Bryn Mawr, PA. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,359 students.

How much student debt do Bryn Mawr College graduates have?

The median student debt for Bryn Mawr College graduates is $25,000. With median earnings of $75,217 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 33%.

Is Bryn Mawr College a good college?

Bryn Mawr College has a graduation rate of 83.6% and median post-graduation earnings of $75,217. Highly selective admissions with a 29.43% acceptance rate.

How does Bryn Mawr College compare to similar colleges?

83.6% graduation rate, higher than many peer institutions. Compared to peer institutions, Bryn Mawr College offers a highly selective and academically rigorous education with strong earnings potential.

What career prospects do Bryn Mawr College graduates have?

Graduates of Bryn Mawr College are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields, particularly those that value strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

What should prospective students know about Bryn Mawr College?

Bryn Mawr College holds a strong position in the market, particularly for women seeking a top-tier liberal arts education.

What makes Bryn Mawr College stand out?

Median earnings of $75,217 ten years after graduation.

What are the pros and cons of attending Bryn Mawr College?

Strong focus on women's education and empowerment.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.