College Comparison
Bates College vs St. Olaf 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
3,124
Undergrad Enrollment
1,760
3,124
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
13.3%
48.3%
Average GPA
3.92
3.74
SAT Range
1420–1530
1300–1470
ACT Range
31–34
28–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
10,027
6,623
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,846
$68,280
Avg Net Price
$30,703
$22,752
Tuition (In-State)
$61,066
$54,650
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,066
$54,650
Room & Board
$18,780
$13,630
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
100.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,809
$45,098
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
86.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
82.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$69,498
$65,543
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Explore by Location
Bates is in Lewiston, ME
St. Olaf is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bates College is $30,703 per year, compared to $22,752 at St. Olaf College. St. Olaf College is $7,951 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bates College typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At St. Olaf College, the typical SAT range is 1300-1470. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Bates College has a graduation rate of 92%, while St. Olaf College has a graduation rate of 86%. Bates College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bates College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while St. Olaf College has a ratio of 11:1. Bates 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 St. Olaf College, 100% of students receive aid with an average grant of $45,098.
The median earnings for Bates College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $69,498, compared to $65,543 for St. Olaf College graduates. Graduates from Bates 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. St. Olaf College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.

