College Comparison
Macalester College vs Smith 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
Northampton, MA
Total Enrollment
2,138
2,857
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
2,549
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
21.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.90
SAT Range
1350–1510
1420–1540
ACT Range
30–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
8,968
8,666
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$81,080
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$26,181
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$58,480
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$58,480
Room & Board
$15,760
$22,600
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$58,725
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
91.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
86.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$64,027
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Smith is in Northampton, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $26,181 at Smith College. Smith College is $3,799 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Smith College, the typical SAT range is 1420-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Smith College has a graduation rate of 91%. Smith College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Smith College has a ratio of 8:1. Smith 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 Smith College, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $58,725.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $64,027 for Smith College graduates. Graduates from Smith 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. Smith College is located in Northampton, MA in a city: small setting.

