College Comparison
Macalester College vs Vassar 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
Poughkeepsie, NY
Total Enrollment
2,138
2,462
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
2,462
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
18.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1350–1510
1450–1550
ACT Range
30–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$65
Total Applicants
8,968
12,447
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$82,080
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$38,182
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$63,840
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$63,840
Room & Board
$15,760
$18,240
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
55.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$57,443
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$71,366
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Vassar is in Poughkeepsie, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $38,182 at Vassar College. Macalester College is $8,202 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Vassar College, the typical SAT range is 1450-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Vassar College has a graduation rate of 92%. Vassar College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Vassar College has a ratio of 7:1. Vassar 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 Vassar College, 55% of students receive aid with an average grant of $57,443.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $71,366 for Vassar College graduates. Graduates from Vassar 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. Vassar College is located in Poughkeepsie, NY in a suburb: large setting.

