About
About Carleton College
Carleton College is a private liberal arts college in Northfield, MN, known for its small midwestern campus, trimester calendar, and strong science programs. With an acceptance rate of 17%, Carleton is highly selective, typically enrolling around 532 students each year. Carleton is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1470–1540, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Students who apply Early Decision are admitted at 37%, roughly double the regular decision rate of 17%, making Early Decision one of the more significant strategic levers available. Carleton meets 100% of demonstrated financial need; the average net price for families earning under $30,000 is $7,881.
Admissions
Carleton College acceptance rate and admitted student profile
highly selective
Application Strategy
Strategy tips for applying to Carleton College
Financial Aid & Cost
What Carleton College actually costs your family
Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.
| Family Income | Sticker Price | Avg. Net Cost / yr |
|---|---|---|
| 0-30k | ~$78k/yr | $7.9k |
| 30k-48k | ~$78k/yr | $8.2k |
| 48k-75k | ~$78k/yr | $9.7k |
| 75k-110k | ~$78k/yr | $18.5k |
| 110k+ | ~$78k/yr | $44.1k |
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Outcomes & Campus
Student outcomes and campus profile
Student Body
Student body composition
Race & Ethnicity