College Comparison
Bowdoin 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
Brunswick, ME
Northfield, MN
Total Enrollment
1,881
2,128
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
2,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
20.4%
Average GPA
3.93
4.00
SAT Range
1470–1550
1450–1560
ACT Range
33–35
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
13,265
7,133
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$79,830
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$27,320
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$62,244
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$62,244
Room & Board
$18,488
$17,586
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$56,846
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$75,525
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $27,320 at Carleton College. Bowdoin College is $6,534 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 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.
Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%. Bowdoin College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bowdoin 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 Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,872. At Carleton College, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,846.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, compared to $75,525 for Carleton College graduates. Graduates from Bowdoin College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting. Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.