College Comparison
Bates 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
Lewiston, ME
Northfield, MN
Total Enrollment
1,760
2,128
Undergrad Enrollment
1,760
2,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
13.3%
20.4%
Average GPA
3.92
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1450–1560
ACT Range
31–34
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
10,027
7,133
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,846
$79,830
Avg Net Price
$30,703
$27,320
Tuition (In-State)
$61,066
$62,244
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,066
$62,244
Room & Board
$18,780
$17,586
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,809
$56,846
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$69,498
$75,525
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Explore by Location
Bates is in Lewiston, ME
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bates College is $30,703 per year, compared to $27,320 at Carleton College. Carleton College is $3,383 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bates College typically score between 1420-1530 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.
Bates College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%. Carleton College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bates College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Carleton College has a ratio of 8:1. Carleton College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Bates College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,809. At Carleton College, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,846.
The median earnings for Bates College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $69,498, compared to $75,525 for Carleton College graduates. Graduates from Carleton College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Bates College is located in Lewiston, ME in a city: small setting. Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.

