Overview
Enrollment
| Location | Saint Paul, Minnesota |
| Online | macalester.edu |
| School Type | Private 4 Year |
| Setting | Large City |
| Religious Affiliation | Presbyterian Church (USA) |
| Size | Small |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad |
Macalester College, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a private liberal arts institution founded in 1874. Notably, Macalester emphasizes internationalism and multiculturalism throughout its curriculum, and it maintains a global perspective as a foundational characteristic. The college's urban campus provides an array of neogothic architecture and offers on-campus living options, fostering a close-knit residential community. Academically, Macalester is known for its strong programs in International Relations, Political Science, and Economics. While selectivity is high, the college adopts a holistic approach to admissions. Geographically, the campus benefits from its proximity to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, allowing students access to urban resources and opportunities. Macalester competes in NCAA Division III athletics but is not specifically distinguished for its sports programs.
In the most recent statistical year 8,434 prospective students applied, and 2,397 were granted admission. Of those admitted 552 enrolled in the school. 2,144 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 31 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $62,270 plus fees of $230. Macalester College is ranked 97 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Macalester College is rated within the top 20% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 9 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Macalester College within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#97 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#84 in Best Private Colleges in the U.S.
#2 in Best Colleges in Minnesota
#2 in Best Private Colleges in Minnesota
#140 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#5 in Best Value Colleges in Minnesota
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1340/1500 |
| ACT | 30/34 |
| Estimated GPA | 3.81 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Applicant Competition | High |
| Application Fee | $0 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $853 |
| Other Fees | $230 |
| Room and Board | $14,000 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $1,547 |
| Total One Year Cost | $78,900 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Social Sciences | 27% |
| Foreign Languages | 10% |
| General Studies | 8% |
| Mathematics | 6% |
| Biology | 6% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering Macalester College are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=173902 IPEDS survey data for Macalester College.
Current students may use the Macalester College GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.