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28.4%Acceptance
$64,908Tuition
2,131Students
90%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$63,878Earnings
#6 in MinnesotaPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalLiberal ArtsNCAA Division IIIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Presbyterian Church (USA)

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$64,908
Out-of-State Tuition
$64,908
Average Net Price
$29,980
Students Receiving Financial Aid
17.3%
Room & Board (On Campus)
$15,477
Books & Supplies
$926
Total Cost of Attendance
$81,311
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,000
Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
$244/mo
Loan Repayment Rate
88.7%
Students Taking Federal Loans
37.5%
Pell Grant Recipients
17.3%

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after grants and scholarships. Source: U.S. Department of Education

Net price by family income bracket
Family Income Average Net Price
$0 – $30,000 $12,877
$30,001 – $48,000 $11,441
$48,001 – $75,000 $13,050
$75,001 – $110,000 $26,584
$110,001+ $43,253

Cost Estimator

Family Income
Residency
Housing

Cost Overview

Most families pay far less than Macalester's $81,311 sticker price. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $12,877 per year, while those from families making $30,000 to $48,000 pay even less at $11,441. Middle-class families earning $48,000 to $75,000 pay $13,050 annually. The price jumps for higher earners, with families making over $110,000 paying $43,253 per year. Over four years, costs range from about $46,000 to $173,000 depending on family income.

Graduates typically leave with $23,000 in debt, translating to $244 monthly payments. With median earnings of $63,878 ten years after graduation, most can handle these payments comfortably. The college meets significant financial need through institutional grants averaging $40,262 for the 25% of students who receive them. Low and middle-income students get the best deal here, often paying less than many state schools while getting a top liberal arts education in an international setting.

Official Net Price Calculator

Get a personalized cost estimate from Macalester College:

Visit Official Net Price Calculator

This links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.