College Comparison
Boston University 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
Boston, MA
Northfield, MN
Total Enrollment
37,737
2,128
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
2,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
20.4%
Average GPA
3.79
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1450–1560
ACT Range
32–34
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$0
Total Applicants
78,769
7,133
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$79,830
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$27,320
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$62,244
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$62,244
Room & Board
$19,020
$17,586
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$56,846
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$75,525
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $27,320 at Carleton College. Boston University is $324 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University 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.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%. Carleton College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, 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 Boston University, 49% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,848. At Carleton College, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,846.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $75,525 for Carleton College graduates. Graduates from Boston University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.