Overview
Enrollment
| Location | Northfield, Minnesota |
| Online | carleton.edu |
| School Type | Private 4 Year |
| Setting | Distant Town |
| Size | Small |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad |
Carleton College, located in Northfield, Minnesota, is a private liberal arts institution established in 1866. Approximately 35 miles south of Minneapolis-St. Paul, Carleton occupies a 1,040-acre campus distinguished by a mix of modern and historic architecture, featuring Gothic-style buildings. The college provides a rigorous academic environment and is noted for its strong programs in mathematics, economics, and the sciences. Carleton operates on a trimester system, allowing for more concentrated studies over shorter periods. The college is highly selective in its admissions process. Residential life is integral to the Carleton experience, with a majority of students living on campus in dormitories, townhouses, and interest-based housing. While Carleton fosters a comprehensive liberal arts education rather than a focus on athletics, it competes in NCAA Division III as the Carleton Knights, maintaining a place for physical activity within a balanced educational framework.
In the most recent statistical year 8,583 prospective students applied, and 1,427 were granted admission. Of those admitted 532 enrolled in the school. 2,041 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 18 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $62,244 plus fees of $390. Carleton College is ranked 39 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Carleton College is rated within the top 9% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 10 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Carleton College within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#39 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#39 in Best Private Colleges in the U.S.
#1 in Best Colleges in Minnesota
#1 in Best Private Colleges in Minnesota
#50 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#1 in Best Value Colleges in Minnesota
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1430/1550 |
| ACT | 32/35 |
| Estimated GPA | 3.9 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Jan 15, 2025 |
| Applicant Competition | Very High |
| Application Fee | $0 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $938 |
| Other Fees | $390 |
| Room and Board | $15,990 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $1,788 |
| Total One Year Cost | $81,350 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Social Sciences | 23% |
| Physical Sciences | 14% |
| Visual and Performing Arts | 10% |
| Biology | 9% |
| English and Literature | 6% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering Carleton College are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about Carleton College.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=173258 IPEDS survey data for Carleton College.
Current students may use the Carleton College GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024