College Comparison
Carleton College vs Northeastern 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
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
2,128
32,553
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
17,432
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
5.2%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1450–1560
1440–1540
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
7,133
98,425
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$78,680
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$32,116
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$59,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$59,100
Room & Board
$17,586
$19,580
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
66.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$50,421
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
35.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$92,538
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Northeastern is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $32,116 at Northeastern University. Carleton College is $4,796 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northeastern University, the typical SAT range is 1440-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Northeastern University 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 Northeastern University has a ratio of 16:1. 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 Northeastern University, 66% of students receive aid with an average grant of $50,421.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $92,538 for Northeastern University graduates. Graduates from Northeastern 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. Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.

