Grinnell College Overview

Grinnell College is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Grinnell, IA. It has an enrollment of 1,713 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 10.54%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $28,610. Tuition is $58,648.00 without financial aid.

Grinnell College is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Grinnell College, 92.50% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Grinnell College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9 to 1.

Grinnell College Website

Grinnell College Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 10.54%.

SAT or ACT scores are required.

• The average SAT score was 1450.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 32.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Grinnell College Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $28,610.

The average tuition is:

• $13,470, when family income is less than $30,000

• $18,452, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $20,113, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $28,092, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $43,522, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 34.43% of students received a federal student loan and 20.09% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $58,648.00 without financial aid.

Grinnell College Net Price Calculator

Grinnell College Majors/Salaries

Grinnell College has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Grinnell College here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $91,744
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $19,227
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,141
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,799
• Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,369
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,052
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,941
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,704
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685

Grinnell College Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Grinnell College

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.00%
• Asian: 7.71%
• Black: 4.26%
• Hispanic: 7.65%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.00%
• Non-resident alien: 19.85%
• Two or more races: 5.02%
• Unknown: 3.50%
• White: 52.01%

At Grinnell College, 0.17% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Grinnell College Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Grinnell College?

Grinnell College is known for having a strong sense of school spirit among its students, alumni, and the overall community. The college’s mascot is the “Pioneer,” which is reflected through a variety of activities such as sporting events and pep rallies. The college also has a long-standing tradition of holding “Scarlet and Black” days throughout the year where the community comes together to celebrate the school’s history and show their pride through various activities and events. Additionally, student-run organizations and clubs on campus also contribute to the vibrant school spirit of Grinnell College.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Grinnell College?

Grinnell College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for its students. Some popular extracurricular activities at Grinnell College include sports such as basketball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and volleyball. There are also many student organizations to get involved with including the student government association, the campus activities board, and the environmental education and protection club. Additionally, Grinnell offers many opportunities for students interested in the arts, such as theater, dance, and music. Finally, students can participate in community service activities through the Center for Careers, Life, and Service.

How are the food choices at Grinnell College?

Grinnell College is known for providing a diverse range of healthy and delicious food options to its students. The college has a dining hall called the Marketplace where students can find a variety of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The Marketplace sources ingredients from local farms and offers a menu that changes daily, so there is always something new to try. Additionally, Grinnell College has a convenience store called the Spencer Grill, which provides snacks, beverages, and other quick grab-and-go food options.

Is there Greek life at Grinnell College?

Yes, there is Greek life at Grinnell College in Iowa. However, the college’s Greek system is quite different from those at other universities. Grinnell has only two fraternities and two sororities, all of which are organized as co-ed organizations. These groups are known as the “social houses” at Grinnell and they have a strong focus on community service and social justice initiatives. All students, including those who do not belong to social houses, are welcome to attend events and participate in the community service activities organized by the organizations.

What is Grinnell College known for?

Grinnell College is known for its rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and research opportunities. It was also one of the first colleges in the US to have a policy of need-blind admissions, meaning that the ability to pay for education is not considered in the admission decision. Grinnell College is also known for its commitment to social justice and community engagement, such as its strong emphasis on community service and service learning programs. Its scenic campus, small class sizes, and close-knit community also make Grinnell a unique and appealing option for many students.

What are the most popular school clubs at Grinnell College?

Grinnell College has a variety of student clubs and organizations, some of the most popular clubs are: 1. Grinnell College Outdoor Recreation Club 2. Mock Trial 3. Grinnell Democrats 4. Grinnell College Chess Club 5. Grinnell College Ultimate Frisbee Club 6. Student Environmental Committee 7. F.I.R.E – Feminists in Resistance and Empowerment 8. Grinnell College Women in Science Association 9. Grinnell College Radio Station 10. Grinnell College Film Production Club

Is the campus at Grinnell College safe?

Grinnell College, located in Grinnell, Iowa, has a very low crime rate and is generally considered a safe campus. The college has its own Department of Campus Safety, which consists of well-trained campus safety officers who work with local and state law enforcement officials to ensure the safety of the students, faculty, and staff. In addition, the college has implemented various safety measures, such as emergency blue light phones, security cameras, and safety escorts. As with any college campus, it is always important to take precautions, such as walking with a friend or in well-lit areas at night.