College Comparison
Macalester College vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Saint Paul, MN
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
2,138
11,886
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
4,535
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
3:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
4.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1350–1510
1520–1580
ACT Range
30–34
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Required
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
8,968
28,232
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$77,870
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$20,000
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$57,590
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$57,590
Room & Board
$15,760
$20,280
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$61,734
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$143,372
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
MIT is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $20,000 at MIT. MIT is $9,980 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At MIT, the typical SAT range is 1520-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while MIT has a graduation rate of 97%. MIT has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while MIT has a ratio of 3:1. MIT offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Macalester College, 87% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $42,766. At MIT, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,734.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $143,372 for MIT graduates. Graduates from MIT tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting. MIT is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

