College Comparison
Macalester College vs Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Total Enrollment
2,138
9,728
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
6,577
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
48.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.74
SAT Range
1350–1510
1350–1490
ACT Range
30–34
31–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$70
Total Applicants
8,968
18,970
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$76,773
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$50,959
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$56,880
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$56,880
Room & Board
$15,760
$19,893
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
71.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$28,368
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
85.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$109,183
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Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $50,959 at Santa Clara University. Macalester College is $20,979 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Santa Clara University, the typical SAT range is 1350-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 90%. Santa Clara University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Santa Clara University has a ratio of 11:1. Macalester 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 Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive aid with an average grant of $28,368.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $109,183 for Santa Clara University graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara 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. Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting.