College Comparison
Carleton College vs Wellesley 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
Wellesley, MA
Total Enrollment
2,128
2,407
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
2,407
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
14.1%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1450–1560
1460–1560
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
7,133
8,714
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$82,608
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$25,008
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$61,584
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$61,584
Room & Board
$17,586
$21,024
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
54.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$64,116
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$84,803
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Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
Wellesley is in Wellesley, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $25,008 at Wellesley College. Wellesley College is $2,312 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Wellesley College, the typical SAT range is 1460-1560. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Wellesley College has a graduation rate of 92%. Wellesley College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while Wellesley College has a ratio of 7:1. Wellesley 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 Wellesley College, 54% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,116.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, compared to $84,803 for Wellesley College graduates. Graduates from Wellesley 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. Wellesley College is located in Wellesley, MA in a suburb: large setting.

