College Comparison
Macalester College vs Union 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
Schenectady, NY
Total Enrollment
2,138
2,065
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
2,065
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
43.9%
Average GPA
4.00
3.70
SAT Range
1350–1510
1310–1480
ACT Range
30–34
29–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$60
Total Applicants
8,968
8,210
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$80,613
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$63,603
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$63,603
Room & Board
$15,760
$17,010
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
96.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$42,534
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
84.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
80.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
90.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$88,604
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Union is in Schenectady, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $36,000 at Union College. Macalester College is $6,020 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Union College, the typical SAT range is 1310-1480. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Union College has a graduation rate of 84%. 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 Union College has a ratio of 9:1. Union 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 Union College, 96% of students receive aid with an average grant of $42,534.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $88,604 for Union College graduates. Graduates from Union 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. Union College is located in Schenectady, NY in a city: small setting.

