College Comparison
Carleton College vs Cornell University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Northfield, MN
Ithaca, NY
Total Enrollment
2,128
26,793
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
16,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
8.8%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1450–1560
1500–1570
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$80
Total Applicants
7,133
62,993
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$81,884
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$32,337
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$62,456
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$62,456
Room & Board
$17,586
$19,428
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
48.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$61,779
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$104,043
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $32,337 at Cornell University. Carleton College is $5,017 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Cornell University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while Cornell University 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 Cornell University, 48% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,779.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $104,043 for Cornell University graduates. Graduates from Cornell University 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. Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting.

