College Comparison
Boston University 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
Boston, MA
Saint Paul, MN
Total Enrollment
37,737
2,138
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
2,138
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
28.5%
Average GPA
3.79
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1350–1510
ACT Range
32–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$0
Total Applicants
78,769
8,968
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$78,030
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$29,980
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$62,270
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$62,270
Room & Board
$19,020
$15,760
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
87.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$42,766
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$63,878
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $29,980 at Macalester College. Boston University is $2,984 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 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.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%. Macalester College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Macalester College has a ratio of 10:1. Macalester 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 Macalester College, 87% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,766.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $63,878 for Macalester 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. Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting.

