College Comparison
Carleton 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
Northfield, MN
Grinnell, IA
Total Enrollment
2,128
1,788
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
1,788
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
14.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.89
SAT Range
1450–1560
1410–1540
ACT Range
32–34
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
7,133
9,758
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$77,830
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$15,608
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$60,988
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$60,988
Room & Board
$17,586
$16,842
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
94.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$49,077
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
89.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
83.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
93.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$62,830
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $15,608 at Grinnell College. Grinnell College is $11,712 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 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.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%. 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 Grinnell 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 Grinnell College, 94% of students receive aid with an average grant of $49,077.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $62,830 for Grinnell College graduates. Graduates from Carleton 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. Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting.