Carleton College

At a glance

Admission rate

20%

Total (middle 50%)

1450–1560

Undergraduates

2,086

Setting

Town: Distant

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Test policy

Test optional Applicants may choose whether to send a score.

As of 2025, Carleton has adopted a permanent test-optional policy for all applicants. Students whose primary language of instruction is not English should submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo results. (Verified on the official admissions website on 2026-11-06.)

Policy source: carleton.edu

SAT scores

Total (middle 50%)

1450–1560

Reading and Writing

720–770

Math

730–790

Average total

1517

ACT composite (middle 50%)

32–34

The middle 50%: a quarter of admitted students who sent scores scored below the first number, a quarter above the second. The total adds up the two sections' ranges, so it's approximate.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Admissions

Accepts

Common App, QuestBridge, CoalitionFirst-year applicants may use Common App, QuestBridge or Coalition App with no preference; no application fee.

Application fee

$0

Phone

(507) 222-4000

Admissions email

admissions@carleton.edu

Source: School's page (carleton.edu), checked November 6, 2026

Cost

Tuition

$72,069per year

Average net price

$25,295What students who get federal aid pay on average after grants and scholarships, per year.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Outcomes

Graduation rate

89%

First-year retention

96%

Median earnings 10 years after entry

$82,742

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Degrees and programs

Degree levels: bachelor

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Data by Field of Study