Macalester College

At a glance

Admission rate

29%

Total (middle 50%)

1350–1510

Undergraduates

2,131

Setting

City: Large

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.

Macalester follows a test-optional policy: applicants may choose to submit ACT or SAT scores, and all applicants receive equal consideration for admission and scholarships. For international applicants English proficiency testing is optional but recommended for some. (Verified on the official admissions website on 2026-11-06.)

Policy source: macalester.edu

SAT scores

Total (middle 50%)

1350–1510

Reading and Writing

680–750

Math

670–760

Average total

1440

ACT composite (middle 50%)

30–34

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, QuestBridgeMacalester accepts the Common App or QuestBridge Application; international applicants apply via Common App. Fee not stated on the pages read.

Phone

(651) 696-6000

Admissions email

admissions@macalester.edu

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

Cost

Tuition

$70,862per year

Average net price

$27,851What 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

91%

First-year retention

92%

Median earnings 10 years after entry

$69,951

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