College Comparison
Carleton College vs Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Total Enrollment
2,128
9,728
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
6,577
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
48.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.74
SAT Range
1450–1560
1350–1490
ACT Range
32–34
31–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$70
Total Applicants
7,133
18,970
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$76,773
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$50,959
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$56,880
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$56,880
Room & Board
$17,586
$19,893
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
71.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$28,368
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
85.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$109,183
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $50,959 at Santa Clara University. Carleton College is $23,639 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Santa Clara University, the typical SAT range is 1350-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara University has a ratio of 11:1. 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 Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive aid with an average grant of $28,368.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $109,183 for Santa Clara University graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara 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. Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting.