Macalester College
Saint Paul, MN · private nonprofit
Official site ↗Admissions
| Admit rate | 28.5% |
| Applicants | 8,968 |
| Middle-50% SAT | 1360–1490 |
| Middle-50% ACT | 30–33 |
| Avg GPA | — |
| Test policy | — |
| Avg net price / yr | $29,980 |
| Grad rate | 90% |
| Median earnings (10 yr) | $63,878 |
| Source | cds · 2024 |
Application requirements
| Early Decision | 2025-11-01 |
| Early Decision II | 2026-01-01 |
| Early Action | 2025-11-01 |
| Regular / Rolling | 2026-01-15 |
| Application fee | $0 (US) · $0 (intl) |
| Personal essay | Required |
| Portfolio | College's own system |
| Test policy | never required |
| Teacher recommendations | 1 |
| Counselor recommendation | Required |
| Mid-year report | Required |
Source: Common App first-year Requirements Grid, 2025-26 cycle. Confirm on the college's site — requirements can change mid-cycle.
Supplemental essays
~300 words each.
- Macalester is one of a few highly selective liberal arts colleges located in the middle of a metropolitan area. Students benefit from the strong sense of community on campus and opportunities to engage in academic, social, and civic engagement options in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. In what ways might Macalester’s urban location enhance your academic, social, and/or community experiences? (300 words)
- Four values permeate Macalester’s mission and purpose: academic distinction, internationalism, multiculturalism, and service to society. Guided by this mission, Macalester is a learning environment that affirms different identities and experiences and prepares graduates to work toward a more just and peaceful world. In what ways do your lived experiences, perspectives, or hopes for your college education connect with Macalester’s mission and community? (300 words)
- Has there been a significant change in your grades at any point during your academic journey? Please use this space to provide relevant context we should consider when reviewing your academic record. (300 words)
Copied verbatim from the school's official admissions page (2025-26 cycle).