College Comparison
Macalester 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
Saint Paul, MN
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
2,138
1,881
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
1,881
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
44.2%
Average GPA
4.00
3.70
SAT Range
1350–1510
1380–1520
ACT Range
30–34
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$70
Total Applicants
8,968
6,461
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$80,250
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$39,329
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$59,970
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$59,970
Room & Board
$15,760
$20,280
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
75.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$36,400
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
81.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
77.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
90.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$75,951
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Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Occidental is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $39,329 at Occidental College. Macalester College is $9,349 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 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.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Occidental College has a graduation rate of 81%. Macalester College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, 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 Macalester College, 87% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $42,766. At Occidental College, 75% of students receive aid with an average grant of $36,400.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, 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.
Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, MN in a city: large setting. Occidental College is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.