College Comparison
Macalester College vs University of Rochester
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
Rochester, NY
Total Enrollment
2,138
11,946
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
6,580
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
40.1%
Average GPA
4.00
3.80
SAT Range
1350–1510
1410–1540
ACT Range
30–34
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$50
Total Applicants
8,968
21,384
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$80,342
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$30,248
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$60,550
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$60,550
Room & Board
$15,760
$19,792
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
72.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$45,500
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
79.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$79,042
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Rochester is in Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $30,248 at University of Rochester. Macalester College is $268 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Rochester, the typical SAT range is 1410-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while University of Rochester has a graduation rate of 87%. 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 University of Rochester has a ratio of 9:1. University of Rochester 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 University of Rochester, 72% of students receive aid with an average grant of $45,500.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $79,042 for University of Rochester graduates. Graduates from University of Rochester 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. University of Rochester is located in Rochester, NY in a city: midsize setting.

