College Comparison
Carleton College vs Washington and Lee 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
Lexington, VA
Total Enrollment
2,128
2,241
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
1,886
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
14.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.91
SAT Range
1450–1560
1430–1540
ACT Range
32–34
33–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$60
Total Applicants
7,133
8,213
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$79,275
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$23,911
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$60,590
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$60,590
Room & Board
$17,586
$18,685
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
64.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$63,945
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$94,810
More Comparisons
Compare Carleton with...
View Carleton profile →
Compare Washington and Lee with...
View Washington and Lee profile →
Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Washington and Lee is in Lexington, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $23,911 at Washington and Lee University. Washington and Lee University is $3,409 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Washington and Lee University, the typical SAT range is 1430-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Washington and Lee University has a graduation rate of 94%. Washington and Lee University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while Washington and Lee University has a ratio of 7:1. Washington and Lee University 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 Washington and Lee University, 64% of students receive aid with an average grant of $63,945.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $94,810 for Washington and Lee University graduates. Graduates from Washington and Lee 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. Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, VA in a town: distant setting.

