College Comparison
Carleton College vs St. Olaf 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
Northfield, MN
Total Enrollment
2,128
3,124
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
3,124
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
48.3%
Average GPA
4.00
3.74
SAT Range
1450–1560
1300–1470
ACT Range
32–34
28–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
7,133
6,623
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$68,280
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$22,752
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$54,650
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$54,650
Room & Board
$17,586
$13,630
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
100.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$45,098
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
86.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
82.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$65,543
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
St. Olaf is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $22,752 at St. Olaf College. St. Olaf College is $4,568 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At St. Olaf College, the typical SAT range is 1300-1470. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while St. Olaf College has a graduation rate of 86%. 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 St. Olaf College 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 St. Olaf College, 100% of students receive aid with an average grant of $45,098.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $65,543 for St. Olaf 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. St. Olaf College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.

