College Comparison
Macalester College vs Northwestern University
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
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
2,138
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
7.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1350–1510
1510–1570
ACT Range
30–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
8,968
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$62,391
Room & Board
$15,760
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $2,837 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northwestern University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Northwestern University has a ratio of 6:1. Northwestern University 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 Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern University graduates. Graduates from Northwestern University 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. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

