Macalester College Overview

Macalester College is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Saint Paul, MN. It has an enrollment of 2,235 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 31.26%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $23,188. Tuition is $60,518.00 without financial aid.

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

At Macalester College, 95.61% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Macalester College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1.

Macalester College Website

Macalester College Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 31.26%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1421.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 31.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Macalester College Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $23,188.

The average tuition is:

• $11,680, when family income is less than $30,000

• $11,010, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $17,727, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $23,983, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $39,494, 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, 39.29% of students received a federal student loan and 21.72% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $60,518.00 without financial aid.

Macalester College Net Price Calculator

Macalester College Majors/Salaries

Macalester 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 Macalester College here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

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

• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $71,575
• Education, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,281
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $15,817
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,222
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,107
• International/Global Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,526
• Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,133
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $64,493
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,569
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,274

Macalester College Diversity

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

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.36%
• Asian: 8.05%
• Black: 4.97%
• Hispanic: 9.89%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.09%
• Non-resident alien: 13.33%
• Two or more races: 8.05%
• Unknown: 0.40%
• White: 54.85%

At Macalester College, 0.09% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Macalester College Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Macalester College?

Macalester College has a strong community of students, faculty, alumni, and supporters, which translates into a vibrant school spirit. The school has a variety of traditions and events that promote school pride, such as a yearly homecoming celebration and the annual Springfest. In addition to these events, students are encouraged to get involved in various clubs, organizations, and athletic teams, which also contribute to the school spirit. Overall, Macalester College has a supportive and spirited community that encourages students to get involved and make the most of their college experience.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Macalester College?

Macalester College offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including: 1. Athletics: Macalester has 20 varsity teams and a number of club and intramural teams. 2. Music: The college has numerous musical ensembles, including a choir, orchestra, and jazz band. 3. Theater: Macalester has a thriving theater program with multiple productions each year. 4. Volunteer Work: The college has a strong tradition of community service and offers a range of opportunities for students to get involved. 5. Student Government: Macalester has a student government association that represents the student body and advocates for student needs and interests. 6. Model United Nations: Macalester has a Model UN club that participates in national and international conferences. 7. Debate: The college has a debate team that competes against other colleges in regional and national tournaments. 8. Publications: Macalester has a variety of student publications, including a newspaper, literary magazine, and yearbook.

How are the food choices at Macalester College?

Macalester College offers a diverse range of food choices in its dining facilities. The cafeteria at Macalester College, called Café Mac, offers a wide variety of dishes ranging from vegan and vegetarian options to meat dishes. There are also gluten-free and Halal options available. Students can also find grab-and-go options such as sandwiches, salads, fruit cups, and yogurt at other dining locations on campus. Additionally, there are coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants near the campus that offer a variety of cuisines to suite different tastes and dietary needs. Overall, Macalester College offers a wide range of food choices to meet the needs of its diverse student body.

Is there Greek life at Macalester College?

Yes, Macalester College has Greek Life on its campus. There are two fraternities and one sorority, which are Delta Tau Delta, Phi Delta Theta, and Kappa Kappa Gamma. However, it is important to note that Greek Life is not the center of social life at Macalester, as the college has a strong focus on inclusivity and promoting an accepting and diverse campus culture.

What is Macalester College known for?

Macalester College is a private liberal arts college located in St. Paul, Minnesota. It is known for its strong academic programs, including its emphasis on internationalism and multiculturalism. Macalester consistently ranks highly among liberal arts colleges in the United States and is particularly recognized for its Political Science department. The college is also known for its strong commitment to community service, civic engagement, and sustainability. Additionally, Macalester is recognized for its small class sizes and personalized approach to education.

What are the most popular school clubs at Macalester College?

There are numerous school clubs and organizations at Macalester College, catering to diverse interests and pursuits. Some of the most popular ones based on student involvement and engagement include: 1. Macalester Outing Club 2. Macalester Film and Media Studies Society 3. Mac Gamers 4. Macalester Badminton Club 5. Macalester International Students Association 6. Macalester Investment Group 7. Mac Music Production Club 8. Macalester College Democrats 9. Macalester Debate Union 10. Macalester Environmental Alliance Keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list, and there are many other clubs and organizations that may be of interest to students based on their personal interests and passions.

Is the campus at Macalester College safe?

Yes, Macalester College has a reputation for being a safe campus. The college has a public safety department that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They patrol the campus regularly, and there are emergency phones throughout the campus in case a student or faculty member needs assistance. The college also has a number of safety initiatives and programs in place, including an escort service for students who need to travel across campus at night. Despite the college’s urban location in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the surrounding neighborhood is generally considered safe as well.