CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Carleton College

Northfield, MN 55057 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 85/100 | ROI Score: -73 | Affordability Score: 35/100

Tuition (In-State): $68,892 | Out-of-State: $68,892

Acceptance Rate: 20.4% | Graduation Rate: 90.4% | Retention Rate: 96.5%

Median Earnings (10yr): $75,525 | Median Debt: $16,750

SAT Average: 1517 | ACT Midpoint: 33

Student Body Size: 2,086 (medium)

Pell Grant Recipients: 16.5% | Federal Loan Rate: 43.4%

Average Faculty Salary: $13,960/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Carleton College is $68,892 per year, which is 75% above the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $68,892/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $275,568 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Carleton College:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $7,881/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $8,203/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $9,680/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $18,485/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $44,082/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $61,011/year, paying just 11% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Carleton College has an acceptance rate of 20.4%, placing it in the Very Selective (20–35%) category. This means roughly 2,555 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1517, 43% above the national average. This places Carleton College among the top-tier institutions for academic preparedness.

The ACT midpoint is 33, 57% above the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

90.4% of students at Carleton College complete their degree, 46% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.

First-year retention rate: 96.5% (19% above the national average). A retention rate above 90% signals high student satisfaction and strong first-year experience programs.

Graduates of Carleton College earn a median salary of $75,525 ten years after enrollment, 85% above the national average. This represents a $40,525/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $1,215,750 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $16,750, 22% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $182/month, with a total repayment of $21,840 (including $5,090 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.22x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Carleton College pays for itself in approximately 7 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

16.5% of students at Carleton College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 50% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.

43.4% of students take federal loans, 8% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $13,960/month, 60% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Carleton College enrolls 2,086 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 72/100 (higher = more diverse). Carleton College has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.

Student body composition: White 51%, Hispanic 10%, Black 6%, Asian 10%.

Carleton College: Strong Academic Performance and High Earnings Potential

Report Card: Overall Grade C

Carleton College receives an overall grade of C based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: A
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: B+
  • Affordability: D

College Analysis

Carleton College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Northfield, MN with approximately 2,086 students. Carleton College boasts a strong academic reputation with a high graduation rate and robust earnings potential. The college offers a diverse student body with a significant percentage of Asian and Hispanic students. Despite high tuition, Carleton's median earnings 10 years post-graduation are impressive, indicating a good return on investment.

The Verdict: Is Carleton College Worth It?

Carleton College presents a complex value proposition. With an out-of-state tuition of $68,892 and a median 10-year earning of $75,525, the immediate return on investment appears modest, especially when considering the median debt of $16,750. The ROI score of -73 further underscores this initial concern. However, this metric often doesn't fully capture the long-term value of a liberal arts education from a highly selective institution. Carleton's strength lies in its rigorous academic environment, strong alumni network, and the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which often lead to higher earning potential in the long run, particularly in fields like consulting, finance, and technology, and in graduate studies. While the initial cost is high and the immediate earnings don't dramatically outpace tuition, the median debt is manageable. A direct comparison shows that while the initial earnings are not significantly higher than the annual tuition, the career trajectory and graduate school success of Carleton alumni often lead to substantial income growth over a 20-30 year career. The debt payoff timeline, with a median debt of $16,750, could be as short as 1-2 years for graduates earning $75,000+. Therefore, despite the high sticker price and a seemingly low initial ROI score, Carleton College can be a worthwhile investment for students who leverage its strong academic reputation, career services, and alumni network to secure high-earning positions or pursue advanced degrees. It's a good deal for those seeking a transformative liberal arts education that pays dividends over a lifetime.

Return on Investment

While Carleton College has a high earning potential, the high tuition and median debt may not make it the best ROI for all students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Carleton College: $16,750. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $190/month. Total repaid: $22,800 ($6,050 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.4 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $22,800.

Strengths

  • Strong academic performance and high graduation rate.
  • High earning potential and robust alumni network.
  • Diverse student body and strong peer group.

Weaknesses

  • High tuition and median student debt.
  • Limited financial aid options for students from lower-income backgrounds.
  • May not be the best fit for students seeking a larger campus with more resources.

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1517. ACT Midpoint: 33. Retention Rate: 96.5%.

Carleton College is renowned for its rigorous liberal arts education, consistently ranking among the top undergraduate institutions in the nation. Its academic strengths lie in its broad-based curriculum, encouraging students to explore diverse fields before declaring a major. Particularly strong departments include English, Political Science, Economics, Biology, and Chemistry, all boasting dedicated faculty and robust research opportunities. The student-faculty ratio is an impressive 10:1, meaning students receive personalized attention from professors who are leaders in their fields. While faculty salaries aren't publicly disclosed in a way that allows for direct comparison, the caliber of faculty at Carleton is exceptionally high, with many holding doctorates from prestigious institutions and actively engaging in research. Undergraduate research is a cornerstone of the Carleton experience, with numerous opportunities for students to work alongside faculty on projects, often leading to co-authored publications or presentations at academic conferences. The Science Commons and the Weitz Center for Creativity are hubs for interdisciplinary collaboration and research. Carleton also offers a highly regarded Honors Program for academically distinguished students, providing advanced coursework and independent study. Study abroad is strongly encouraged, with a wide range of programs available globally, many of which are affiliated with Carleton or other top liberal arts colleges. Academic support is comprehensive, including the Academic Skills Center, writing tutors, and dedicated advisors for every student.

Financial Aid Guide for Carleton College

Pell Grant recipients: 16.5%. Students taking federal loans: 43.4%.

Carleton College is committed to making its exceptional education accessible through a generous financial aid program, primarily focused on need-based aid. The college meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, a significant commitment that eases the financial burden for many families. Merit aid is not a primary focus at Carleton; instead, the emphasis is on ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent talented students from attending. Typical aid packages for families with incomes below $60,000 often cover a substantial portion of tuition, fees, room, and board, with many students in this bracket receiving aid that significantly reduces their out-of-pocket costs. For families with incomes between $60,000 and $150,000, aid packages are still robust, often including grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Work-study is a common component, providing students with the chance to earn money through on-campus employment, with typical earnings ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 per academic year. Scholarship tips for Carleton applicants often involve highlighting unique talents, leadership experiences, and a genuine commitment to community service in their applications and any supplemental essays. While Carleton does not typically engage in significant aid negotiation in the same way some larger universities might, if there are extenuating circumstances or a significant change in financial situation, it is advisable to contact the financial aid office to discuss the possibility of a review. The average need-based grant awarded can be substantial, often exceeding $50,000, making Carleton an attainable option for many families.

Hidden Costs at Carleton College

  • Room and Board: While tuition is listed, the comprehensive fee for room and board typically adds an estimated $17,000 - $19,000 per academic year.
  • Textbooks and Supplies: Students should budget approximately $1,000 - $1,500 annually for textbooks, course materials, and other academic supplies.
  • Personal Expenses: This includes costs for laundry, toiletries, entertainment, and other daily necessities, which can range from $1,500 - $2,500 per year.
  • Transportation: While Northfield is walkable, travel to and from home or for personal trips can add significant costs, especially for students living far away, potentially $500 - $2,000+ annually depending on travel frequency and distance.
  • Student Activity Fee: A mandatory fee of approximately $300 - $400 per year supports student organizations, events, and campus programming.
  • Health Insurance: If a student is not covered by a parent's plan, Carleton's student health insurance plan costs around $2,500 - $3,500 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Carleton College, a highly selective liberal arts institution, cultivates a strong alumni network that translates into diverse career pathways and graduate school placements. While specific recruitment data from major employers isn't always publicly detailed for liberal arts colleges, Carleton's graduates are highly sought after by organizations valuing critical thinking, strong communication, and analytical skills. Common industries where alumni cluster include education, technology, finance, consulting, non-profits, and healthcare. Major employers that have historically hired Carleton graduates include companies like Google, Microsoft, Deloitte, McKinsey & Company, Teach For America, and various hospital systems and research institutions. The college also boasts a robust graduate school placement rate, with a significant percentage of alumni pursuing advanced degrees in fields such as law, medicine, business, and academia. Notable alumni span various fields, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Stephen Ambrose, former U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone, and numerous leaders in business and the arts. Carleton's Career Center is highly regarded, offering personalized advising, robust internship programs, and strong connections to alumni for mentorship and job opportunities. Internship pipelines are often facilitated through alumni connections and dedicated career services initiatives, allowing students to gain experience at organizations like the National Science Foundation, the Smithsonian Institution, and various startups. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong presence in major metropolitan areas, particularly on the coasts (New York City, San Francisco Bay Area, Boston, Washington D.C.) and in the Midwest (Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul), reflecting the national reach of its graduates and the industries they enter.

Campus Life & Culture at Carleton College

Carleton College attracts a geographically diverse student body, with a significant percentage coming from outside Minnesota, fostering a rich exchange of perspectives. The student population is known for its intellectual intensity, collaborative spirit, and a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement. Students who thrive here are typically self-motivated, curious, and enjoy engaging in deep discussions both inside and outside the classroom.

Carleton College, nestled in the charming town of Northfield, MN, cultivates a vibrant and intellectually engaged campus culture often described as 'quirky, smart, and friendly.' The student body is known for its deep commitment to academics, but also for its active participation in a wide array of extracurriculars. The social scene is largely driven by student organizations and campus events rather than Greek life, which plays a minimal role here. Think spontaneous discussions in Sayles Hall, late-night study sessions fueled by good coffee, and a strong sense of community. Housing is guaranteed for all four years, with a mix of traditional dorms, suites, and houses, fostering a close-knit living environment. The dining halls, particularly Burton and Evens, are central hubs for socializing and refueling, offering diverse options that cater to various dietary needs. Student organizations are abundant, covering everything from the Carleton Ultimate Frisbee team and the Carleton Symphony Orchestra to the student-run radio station, KRLX. Athletics are a significant part of campus life, with strong Division III programs in sports like soccer, basketball, and cross country, often drawing enthusiastic crowds to games. The 'vibe' is one of collaborative learning, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine desire to make a difference, all within a supportive and engaged community. Northfield itself offers a pleasant college town experience, with local shops and restaurants easily accessible from campus.

Campus Highlights

  • The "Gopher Hole" in Sayles Hall: A beloved campus tradition where students can leave anonymous notes, compliments, or even small gifts for others.
  • Arboretum: A stunning 885-acre natural area on campus, offering opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, and scientific research.
  • The "Bell Tower" tradition: Students often gather at the bell tower for spontaneous celebrations or moments of reflection.
  • Student-run radio station (KRLX): A vibrant hub for student creativity, music, and news.
  • The "Ski-U-Mah" chant: A spirited, if somewhat quirky, cheer often heard at athletic events.
  • The Weitz Center for Creativity: A state-of-the-art facility housing arts departments, performance spaces, and galleries, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Location & Regional Advantages

Carleton College's location in Northfield, Minnesota, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to a major metropolitan hub. Northfield itself provides a safe, quiet, and academically focused environment, often described as having a high quality of life with a strong sense of community. The cost of living in Northfield is generally lower than in major urban centers, which can be an advantage for students and recent graduates. While Northfield doesn't boast a large local job market for immediate post-graduation employment, its strategic location is a significant advantage. It is approximately an hour's drive from Minneapolis-St. Paul (the Twin Cities), a vibrant metropolitan area offering a diverse economy with major industries in healthcare (Allina Health, HealthPartners), technology (3M, Medtronic), finance (Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank), and retail (Target, Best Buy). This proximity allows Carleton students to easily access internships, networking events, and job opportunities in a much larger market without being overwhelmed by the distractions of a big city. The weather in Minnesota, with its distinct seasons including cold winters, contributes to a resilient and community-oriented student body. This location provides a balance: a focused academic setting with access to significant career opportunities.

How to Get Into Carleton College

Gaining admission to Carleton College, with its highly selective 20.4% acceptance rate, requires a compelling application that showcases intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and a strong fit with the college's liberal arts ethos. Carleton offers Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) options. ED is binding and can offer a slight advantage for genuinely committed students, while EA is non-binding and allows students to receive an early decision. The admissions committee deeply values academic rigor; strong grades in challenging courses (AP, IB, honors) are paramount. While SAT/ACT scores are not currently required, if submitted, they would likely reflect a highly competitive range. Essays are critical for demonstrating your voice and personality. Focus on essays that reveal your intellectual passions, your engagement with the world, and how you'd contribute to Carleton's unique community. Topics that explore your curiosity, your growth through challenges, or your commitment to learning beyond the classroom tend to resonate. Demonstrated interest is considered, so actively engaging with Carleton through virtual events, campus visits (if possible), and thoughtful communication with the admissions office is recommended. The application timeline should prioritize submitting your ED application by November 15th or your EA/Regular Decision application by January 15th, with financial aid deadlines typically following closely.

How Carleton College Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Amherst College, Williams College, Swarthmore College, Pomona College

Advantages

  • Strong emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities.
  • Exceptional alumni network with deep connections across various industries.
  • Unique 'Posse Plus' program fostering inclusive dialogue and community building.
  • Beautiful, self-contained campus environment conducive to focused study.

Disadvantages

  • Geographic isolation compared to some peers with closer proximity to major cities.
  • Potentially fewer large-scale, on-campus recruitment events compared to larger universities.
  • Smaller endowment per student compared to some of the wealthiest liberal arts colleges.

Best For

  • Prospective students should consider Carleton if they value a strong academic environment and diverse peer group.
  • Ideal for students who are willing to invest in a high-quality education and are prepared to manage student debt.

Avoid If

  • Avoid Carleton if you are looking for a more affordable option or if you are not willing to take on significant student debt.
  • Not recommended for students who prioritize large class sizes or extensive campus resources.

Frequently Asked Questions about Carleton College

How much does it cost to attend Carleton College?

In-state tuition at Carleton College is $68,892 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $68,892 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $16,750.

What is the acceptance rate at Carleton College?

Carleton College has an acceptance rate of 20.4%.

What is the graduation rate at Carleton College?

Carleton College has a graduation rate of 90.4%.

How much do Carleton College graduates earn?

The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525. With median debt of $16,750, graduates earn roughly 4.5x their debt level annually.

How big is Carleton College?

Carleton College has approximately 2,086 students and is classified as a medium institution. It is located in Northfield, MN and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Carleton College worth the cost?

Carleton College has an ROI score of -73 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $68,892 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $75,525, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Carleton College located?

Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 2,086 students.

How much student debt do Carleton College graduates have?

The median student debt for Carleton College graduates is $16,750. With median earnings of $75,525 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 22%.

Is Carleton College a good college?

Carleton College has a graduation rate of 90.4% and median post-graduation earnings of $75,525. High admission rate of 20.41% with a diverse student body.

How does Carleton College compare to similar colleges?

90.39% graduation rate and median earnings of $75,525 after 10 years. Compared to peer institutions, Carleton College offers a strong academic experience and high earning potential, though the high tuition may be a concern.

What career prospects do Carleton College graduates have?

Graduates of Carleton College are well-positioned for careers in a variety of fields, particularly those requiring strong analytical and communication skills.

What should prospective students know about Carleton College?

Carleton College holds a strong market position, attracting a diverse student body and offering a high return on investment through its robust alumni earnings.

What makes Carleton College stand out?

Median student debt of $16,750, lower than many peer institutions.

What are the pros and cons of attending Carleton College?

Private, non-profit status with medium-sized campus.

Explore More

Colleges in Minnesota

Browse all colleges in Minnesota

Similar Schools

College Rankings

Research Tools

H-1B Visa Salary Data

Visit Carleton College official website

View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.