College Comparison
Carleton College vs University of Chicago
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Northfield, MN
Chicago, IL
Total Enrollment
2,128
18,566
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
7,598
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
4.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1450–1560
1510–1580
ACT Range
32–34
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
7,133
43,612
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$81,288
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$18,967
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$61,179
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$61,179
Room & Board
$17,586
$20,109
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
47.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$62,300
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$91,885
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. University of Chicago is $8,353 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. University of Chicago 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 University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago graduates. Graduates from University of Chicago 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. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.

