College Comparison
Amherst College vs Macalester 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
Saint Paul, MN
Total Enrollment
1,914
2,138
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
2,138
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
28.5%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1580
1350–1510
ACT Range
33–35
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
13,743
8,968
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$78,030
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$29,980
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$62,270
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$62,270
Room & Board
$18,390
$15,760
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
87.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$42,766
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$63,878
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $29,980 at Macalester College. Amherst College is $11,734 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Macalester College, the typical SAT range is 1350-1510. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%. 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 Macalester College has a ratio of 10:1. 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 Macalester College, 87% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,766.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $63,878 for Macalester 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. Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting.