College Comparison
Colby College vs Macalester College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Waterville, ME
Saint Paul, MN
Total Enrollment
2,412
2,138
Undergrad Enrollment
2,412
2,138
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
28.5%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1460–1550
1350–1510
ACT Range
32–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
19,187
8,968
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,730
$78,030
Avg Net Price
$23,939
$29,980
Tuition (In-State)
$60,840
$62,270
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,840
$62,270
Room & Board
$17,890
$15,760
% Receiving Aid
45.0%
87.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$69,201
$42,766
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$63,878
More Comparisons
Compare Colby with...
View Colby profile →
Compare Macalester with...
View Macalester profile →
Explore by Location
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colby College is $23,939 per year, compared to $29,980 at Macalester College. Colby College is $6,041 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colby College typically score between 1460-1550 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Macalester College, the typical SAT range is 1350-1510. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%, while Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%. Macalester College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colby College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Macalester College has a ratio of 10:1. Colby College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Colby College, 45% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $69,201. At Macalester College, 87% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,766.
The median earnings for Colby College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,490, compared to $63,878 for Macalester College graduates. Graduates from Colby College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting. Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting.

