College Comparison
Grinnell College vs Occidental 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
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,788
1,881
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
1,881
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
44.2%
Average GPA
3.89
3.70
SAT Range
1410–1540
1380–1520
ACT Range
31–34
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$70
Total Applicants
9,758
6,461
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$80,250
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$39,329
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$59,970
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$59,970
Room & Board
$16,842
$20,280
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
75.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$36,400
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
81.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
77.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
90.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$75,951
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Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Occidental is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $39,329 at Occidental College. Grinnell College is $23,721 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Occidental College, the typical SAT range is 1380-1520. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while Occidental College has a graduation rate of 81%. Grinnell College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Occidental College has a ratio of 9:1. Occidental 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 Occidental College, 75% of students receive aid with an average grant of $36,400.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, compared to $75,951 for Occidental College graduates. Graduates from Occidental 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. Occidental College is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.