College Comparison
Bowdoin College vs Grinnell 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
Grinnell, IA
Total Enrollment
1,881
1,788
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
1,788
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
14.5%
Average GPA
3.93
3.89
SAT Range
1470–1550
1410–1540
ACT Range
33–35
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$0
Total Applicants
13,265
9,758
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$77,830
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$15,608
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$60,988
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$60,988
Room & Board
$18,488
$16,842
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
94.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$49,077
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
89.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
83.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
93.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$62,830
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $15,608 at Grinnell College. Grinnell College is $5,178 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Grinnell College, the typical SAT range is 1410-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%. 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 Grinnell College has a ratio of 9:1. Grinnell 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 Grinnell College, 94% of students receive aid with an average grant of $49,077.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, compared to $62,830 for Grinnell 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. Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting.

