College Comparison
Carleton College vs Colby College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Northfield, MN
Waterville, ME
Total Enrollment
2,128
2,412
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
2,412
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
7.1%
Average GPA
4.00
3.90
SAT Range
1450–1560
1460–1550
ACT Range
32–34
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
7,133
19,187
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$78,730
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$23,939
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$60,840
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$60,840
Room & Board
$17,586
$17,890
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
45.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$69,201
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
87.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
82.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$80,490
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $23,939 at Colby College. Colby College is $3,381 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Colby College, the typical SAT range is 1460-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%. Carleton College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while Colby College has a ratio of 9:1. Carleton College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Carleton College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,846. At Colby College, 45% of students receive aid with an average grant of $69,201.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $80,490 for Colby College graduates. Graduates from Colby College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting. Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting.