College Comparison
Amherst College vs Carleton College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Northfield, MN
Total Enrollment
1,914
2,128
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
2,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
20.4%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1580
1450–1560
ACT Range
33–35
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
13,743
7,133
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$79,830
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$27,320
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$62,244
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$62,244
Room & Board
$18,390
$17,586
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$56,846
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$75,525
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $27,320 at Carleton College. Amherst College is $9,074 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Carleton College, the typical SAT range is 1450-1560. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%. Amherst College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Carleton College has a ratio of 8:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Carleton College, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,846.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $75,525 for Carleton College graduates. Graduates from Amherst College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.