Carleton College: Is It Worth It?
Northfield, Minnesota · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
6.4
Net Price/Year
$25,407
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$75,525
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$16,750
at graduation
Is Carleton College Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $75,525 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $25,407 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $101,628.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.3 years.
The median graduate leaves with $16,750 in debt, which represents about 22%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
Avg SAT
1517
ACT Midpoint
33
Enrollment
2,086
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
90.4%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
96.5%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
27400.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$68,892
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,892
Avg Net Price
$25,407
After grants/scholarships
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carleton College worth the money?
Based on federal data, Carleton College graduates earn a median of $75,525 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $16,750 at graduation. The ROI score is 6.4.
What do Carleton College graduates earn?
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates is $53,989 six years after enrollment and $75,525 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Carleton College?
The acceptance rate at Carleton College is 20.4%.
How much debt do Carleton College graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Carleton College students is $16,750.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.