College Comparison
Macalester College vs Wheaton 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
Wheaton, IL
Total Enrollment
2,138
2,874
Undergrad Enrollment
2,138
2,150
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
28.5%
87.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.90
SAT Range
1350–1510
1260–1470
ACT Range
30–34
28–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$50
Total Applicants
8,968
2,040
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$55,000
Avg Net Price
$29,980
$26,984
Tuition (In-State)
$62,270
$41,990
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,270
$41,990
Room & Board
$15,760
$13,010
% Receiving Aid
87.0%
98.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$42,766
$27,987
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
89.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
92.0%
93.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$63,878
$63,756
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Explore by Location
Macalester is in Saint Paul, MN
Wheaton is in Wheaton, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Macalester College is $29,980 per year, compared to $26,984 at Wheaton College. Wheaton College is $2,996 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Macalester College typically score between 1350-1510 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Wheaton College, the typical SAT range is 1260-1470. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Macalester College has a graduation rate of 90%, while Wheaton College has a graduation rate of 89%. 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 Wheaton College has a ratio of 10:1. Wheaton 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 Wheaton College, 98% of students receive aid with an average grant of $27,987.
The median earnings for Macalester College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $63,878, compared to $63,756 for Wheaton College graduates. Graduates from Macalester 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. Wheaton College is located in Wheaton, IL in a suburb: large setting.

