College Comparison
Carleton College vs Vassar 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
Poughkeepsie, NY
Total Enrollment
2,128
2,462
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
2,462
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
18.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1450–1560
1450–1550
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$65
Total Applicants
7,133
12,447
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$82,080
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$38,182
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$63,840
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$63,840
Room & Board
$17,586
$18,240
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
55.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$57,443
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$71,366
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Vassar is in Poughkeepsie, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $38,182 at Vassar College. Carleton College is $10,862 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Vassar College, the typical SAT range is 1450-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Vassar College has a graduation rate of 92%. Vassar College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while Vassar College has a ratio of 7:1. Vassar 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 Vassar College, 55% of students receive aid with an average grant of $57,443.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $71,366 for Vassar 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. Vassar College is located in Poughkeepsie, NY in a suburb: large setting.

