College Comparison
Harvard University 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
Cambridge, MA
Saint Paul, MN
Total Enrollment
30,259
2,138
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
2,138
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
28.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1510–1580
1350–1510
ACT Range
34–36
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$0
Total Applicants
54,008
8,968
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$78,030
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$29,980
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$62,270
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$62,270
Room & Board
$21,190
$15,760
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
87.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$42,766
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$63,878
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $29,980 at Macalester College. Harvard University is $13,164 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 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.
Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Harvard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Macalester College has a ratio of 10:1. Harvard University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Harvard University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,015. At Macalester College, 87% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,766.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $63,878 for Macalester College graduates. Graduates from Harvard University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting.

