College Comparison
Macalester College vs St. Olaf 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
Northfield, MN
Total Enrollment
2,138
3,124
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
3,124
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
48.3%
Average GPA
4.00
3.74
SAT Range
1350–1510
1300–1470
ACT Range
30–34
28–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$0
Total Applicants
8,968
6,623
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$68,280
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$22,752
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$54,650
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$54,650
Room & Board
$15,760
$13,630
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
100.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$45,098
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
86.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
82.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$65,543
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
St. Olaf is in Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $22,752 at St. Olaf College. St. Olaf College is $7,228 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At St. Olaf College, the typical SAT range is 1300-1470. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while St. Olaf College has a graduation rate of 86%. 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 St. Olaf College 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 St. Olaf College, 100% of students receive aid with an average grant of $45,098.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $65,543 for St. Olaf College graduates. Graduates from St. Olaf 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. St. Olaf College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting.