Macalester College SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Macalester is test-optional, but its admitted-student score range gives you a clear target: aim for the upper half of the SAT range, around 1430 to 1490, or a 32 to 34 ACT. A score in that zone can add concrete evidence that you are ready for Macalester’s academic pace.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Macalester College facts and stats
Macalester College is an urban liberal arts college with an undergraduate enrollment of 2,144 students. Macalester has a freshman retention rate of 92%, well above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 87%, reflecting strong student progress through degree completion.
St. Paul, MN
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Key Macalester College application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
January 15
Early Action
November 1
Early Decision
November 1
Priority Deadline
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Coming soon
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional Macalester, take your first SAT or ACT by spring of junior year so you can use the summer before senior year and early fall for superscore-focused retakes. For the November 1 Early Decision/Early Action deadline, the October SAT or September ACT is typically the last retake whose scores can arrive in time.
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What you'll actually pay
Macalester’s tuition and fees are $68,104, with 55% of students receiving aid. Merit scholarships are part of the aid picture, with an average merit award of $18,937.
Macalester’s listed cost of attendance is $83,864, including $68,104 in tuition and fees and $15,760 for room and board. About 55% of students receive aid, with an average aid package of $66,010. The average merit award is $18,937, which can help reduce the net price for qualifying students. Graduates leave with an average debt of $24,601.
Student life at Macalester College
57% of undergrads live on campus
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
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