College Comparison
Carleton College vs Macalester 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
Saint Paul, MN
Total Enrollment
2,128
2,138
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
2,138
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
28.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1450–1560
1350–1510
ACT Range
32–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
7,133
8,968
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$78,030
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$29,980
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$62,270
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$62,270
Room & Board
$17,586
$15,760
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
87.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$42,766
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$63,878
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $29,980 at Macalester College. Carleton College is $2,660 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Macalester College, the typical SAT range is 1350-1510. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%. 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 Macalester College has a ratio of 10:1. 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 Macalester College, 87% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,766.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $63,878 for Macalester 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. Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting.