College Comparison
Grinnell 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
Grinnell, IA
Saint Paul, MN
Total Enrollment
1,788
2,138
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
2,138
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
28.5%
Average GPA
3.89
4.00
SAT Range
1410–1540
1350–1510
ACT Range
31–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
9,758
8,968
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$78,030
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$29,980
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$62,270
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$62,270
Room & Board
$16,842
$15,760
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
87.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$42,766
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$63,878
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Explore by Location
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $29,980 at Macalester College. Grinnell College is $14,372 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 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.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%. Macalester College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Macalester College has a ratio of 10:1. Grinnell College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Grinnell College, 94% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $49,077. At Macalester College, 87% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,766.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, compared to $63,878 for Macalester College graduates. Graduates from Macalester College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting. Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting.