Carleton College Admission Chances
Quick answer
Carleton College in Northfield, MN admits about 20% of applicants (admitted students score 1450–1560 on the SAT, middle 50%), making it a competitive reach-to-target for most students. Your real odds depend on your GPA, test scores, and intended major — estimate them free in about 15 seconds below.
Key facts
- Acceptance rate
- 20%
- SAT (mid-50%)
- 1450–1560
- Test policy
- —
- In-state tuition
- $68,892
- Out-of-state tuition
- $68,892
- Avg. net price
- $25,407
- Undergrads
- 2,086
- Setting
- Town
- Location
- Northfield, MN
Is Carleton College a reach for you?
Estimated admission chance by applicant profile, from the same engine FalconPrep uses to build your list. Estimates — your real odds depend on your full profile, major, and residency.
| Applicant | SAT / GPA | Verdict | Est. chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below average | 1150 / 3.3 | Reach | 0% |
| Average | 1300 / 3.6 | Reach | 2% |
| Above average | 1400 / 3.8 | Reach | 9% |
| Strong | 1520 / 3.9 | Target | 39% |
Should you apply to Carleton College?
- →If your SAT is above 1560 and your GPA is strong (roughly 3.9+), Carleton College is a realistic target — apply, and consider an early round if it's your clear first choice.
- →If your SAT falls within its 1450–1560 middle 50%, treat Carleton College as a reach worth taking — balance it with solid target and safety schools.
- →If your SAT is below 1450, Carleton College is a long-shot reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and lead your list with stronger matches.
Weighing fit? Compare Carleton College with Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Hillsdale College, Smith College.
Calculate your real chances at Carleton College
Enter your GPA and scores — get your estimated admission chance plus a full reach / target / safety list. Free, no account.
Calculate my chances →Or use the free college acceptance calculator for a quick single-school estimate.
Carleton College admissions FAQ
Can I get into Carleton College?
Getting into Carleton College is competitive but achievable: it admits about 20% of applicants, so students at or above its published range have a real shot. Admitted students typically score 1450–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%). Use the free chances calculator below for your exact odds.
What are my chances of getting into Carleton College?
Your chances of getting into Carleton College depend on your GPA, test scores, intended major, and residency. The table above estimates admission chances by applicant profile, and the free calculator gives you a personalized reach / target / safety read in about 15 seconds — no account needed.
Should I apply to Carleton College?
Apply to Carleton College if your SAT is at or above its 1450–1560 middle-50% range and your GPA is strong — it's a realistic target then. If you're below that range it's a reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and balance it with target and safety schools. Estimate your exact odds with the free calculator below.
Is Carleton College a reach school?
Yes — with a roughly 20% acceptance rate, Carleton College is a reach for most applicants.
What SAT score do you need for Carleton College?
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450 and 1560 on the SAT (the middle 50%). A score above 1560 strengthens your odds.
What is Carleton College's acceptance rate?
Carleton College accepts approximately 20% of applicants.
Does Carleton College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Carleton College does not appear to offer a binding or early-action round — applicants apply in the Regular Decision round. Confirm on Carleton College's admissions site.
Figures are drawn from public data (U.S. Department of Education / IPEDS and college admissions data) and reviewed regularly. Always confirm current numbers and deadlines on Carleton College's official admissions site.