College Comparison
Carleton College vs Southern Methodist 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
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
2,128
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
63.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.66
SAT Range
1450–1560
1340–1490
ACT Range
32–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$60
Total Applicants
7,133
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$55,012
Room & Board
$17,586
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Carleton College is $14,458 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. 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 Southern Methodist 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Southern Methodist 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

