College Comparison
Macalester College vs University of Pennsylvania
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
Philadelphia, PA
Total Enrollment
2,138
29,109
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
11,478
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
5.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1350–1510
1510–1570
ACT Range
30–34
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
8,968
65,226
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$75,386
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$31,229
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$56,212
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$56,212
Room & Board
$15,760
$19,174
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
51.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$65,458
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$111,371
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $31,229 at Penn. Macalester College is $1,249 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Penn, 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 Penn has a graduation rate of 96%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Penn has a ratio of 8:1. Penn 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 Penn, 51% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,458.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $111,371 for Penn graduates. Graduates from Penn 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. Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting.

