Carleton College
Northfield, MN · Private · 2,086 undergrads
- Admit rate: 20.4% (6,464 applicants)
- SAT middle 50%: 1450–1560 (ACT 32–34)
- Undergraduates: 2,086 (10.4% international)
- Average net price: $25,407 (per year after aid)
- Graduation rate: 90% (within 6 years)
Deadlines
- Early Decision: Nov. 15, 2026
- Early Decision II: Jan. 15, 2027
- Regular Decision: Jan. 15, 2027
Editor's notes
- With no supplement, the personal statement does all the writing work, and Carleton's CDS rates the essay very important. Its readers' advice is concrete: one event, a clear thesis, some reflection. Take them at their word.
- Your teachers matter more here than at many schools. Carleton asks for two academic letters and rates recommendations very important. Pick teachers who can give a specific classroom moment, because that's what Carleton tells them it wants.
- Winter ED closes Jan. 15, the same day as RD, so a binding second chance costs you no extra time. The fall 2025 CDS shows 263 ED admits out of 1,480 total. Only commit if the aid estimate works for you.
- Carleton's CDS lists demonstrated interest as not considered, so a visit is for your benefit, not your file. The interview is optional and needs a prior visit or virtual session to book, so plan ahead if you want one.
Sources
- Carleton Admissions, Applying to Carleton (dates to remember)
- Carleton Admissions, In depth: materials and deadlines
- Carleton Admissions, Class of 2030 profile
- Carleton Admissions, Criteria for admission
- Carleton Admissions, Arrange an interview
- Carleton Admissions, No-loan for all
- Carleton Admissions, Cost and financial aid
- Carleton Admissions, Essay tips
- Carleton Admissions, Recommendation letters (workshop for teachers and counselors)
- Carleton Admissions, Tips for National Merit Scholars
- Common App, 2026-27 first-year requirements grid
