Cal Poly SLO vs Macalester
How Cal Poly SLO and Macalester stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Cal Poly SLO | Macalester | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 28.8% | 28% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | Not reported | 1360-1510 |
| Testing policy | Test-blind | Test-optional |
| Type | Public | Private |
| Location | CA | MN |
| Sticker price (per year) | $27,966 | $86,952 |
| Average cost after aid | $15,800 | $30,555 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- Macalester is harder to get into than Cal Poly SLO (28% versus 28.8%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Cal Poly SLO is usually the cheaper option ($15,800 versus $30,555 per year on average).
- On testing, Cal Poly SLO is test-blind while Macalester is test-optional.
- Macalester asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Cal Poly SLO vs Macalester FAQ
Is Cal Poly SLO or Macalester harder to get into?
Macalester is harder to get into, admitting about 28% of applicants versus 28.8% at Cal Poly SLO.
Is Cal Poly SLO or Macalester cheaper?
After financial aid, Cal Poly SLO is usually cheaper, about $15,800 per year on average versus $30,555 at Macalester.
See your real chances at Cal Poly SLO and Macalester.
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