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Carleton College

Northfield, Minnesota · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #10 US News

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
AAcademics
A-Admissions
B+Student Life
A-Overall

About

Carleton College is located in Northfield, Minnesota. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 2,019 students.

carleton.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$65,457
Out-of-state tuition$65,457
Room & board$16,710
Avg aid package$72,356
Students receiving aid14%
Pell grant recipients14%

Carleton College is recognized as a best value school by U.S. News & World Report. The college meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students, making it affordable for a wide range of applicants. Carleton also offers merit-based scholarships to recognize outstanding academic achievement.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1430–1550
4001600
ACT · middle 50%32–34
136

Application info

Acceptance rate22%
Average GPA3.90
Student–faculty ratio8:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Admission to Carleton is highly selective, with an acceptance rate around 20%. The college seeks students with intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning. Carleton has a history of enrolling National Merit Scholars and considers various factors in its holistic review process.

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Academics

Graduation rate91%
Retention rate96%
Student–faculty ratio8:1
Full-time faculty84%

Carleton College is known for its academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and a unique sense of humor. The college is recognized as the nation’s top college for undergraduate teaching. With small class sizes and top-ranked professors, Carleton fosters a collaborative community where students and professors work closely together.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$75,525
Job placement rate94%
Earn more than HS grad78%
Economic mobility137%
Loan default (3 yr)1%
Loan repayment (3 yr)92%

Carleton graduates are highly successful across various sectors, with many pursuing graduate studies at top universities. Alumni work in business, finance, healthcare, education, and technology. The college boasts a loyal alumni network that actively supports fellow Carls in their career endeavors.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
2,019Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 51%Male 49%
52% WhiteRacial diversity
White 52%Asian 10%Hispanic 10%Black 7%Other 21%
Campus housingYes

Carleton offers a vibrant student life with over 200 student-led clubs and organizations. Students are active in various activities, from broomball to frisbee. The college fosters a strong sense of community with unique campus traditions and events.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

Carleton is a very academically rigorous college. It is not a party school and it does not have Greek life. If you are here for academics, you will be well-supported by staff and professors, and you will find strong resources if you plan to attend graduate school after.

Student

Great school. Great education, great support, abundant resources. The best school if you want to pursue higher education

Campus and vibes

Student

I chose Carleton over other more "highly ranked" colleges (whatever that means; you should choose the school that fits you, not because of a number on some arbitrary list). I visited in early March and fell in love with the campus and the student body. Every student I met just seemed happy and supportive, which I didn't necessarily see at other top SLACs.

About Carleton College

Carleton College is located in the safe and friendly town of Northfield, Minnesota. The college prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, providing a secure campus environment. Security measures are in place to ensure a safe living and learning experience.

Carleton encourages students to pursue significant scholarly work through independent study, comps, and fellowship opportunities. Faculty-mentored research is a key component of the academic experience. Students can engage in research during the academic year, summer, or winter breaks.

Carleton welcomes students from around the world, with international students representing over 50 countries. The college provides resources and support to help international students thrive. Carleton equips students to express and explore their identities, interests, and post-college course.

Endowment$1,176,531,478
Avg faculty salary$146,076

Carleton College FAQ

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Will you get into Carleton College?

Carleton College admits about 22% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
Match
Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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