Macalester vs Reed
How Macalester and Reed stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Macalester | Reed | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 28% | 27% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1360-1510 | 1300-1510 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-blind |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | MN | OR |
| Sticker price (per year) | $86,952 | $89,610 |
| Average cost after aid | $30,555 | $39,882 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 1 |
- Reed is harder to get into than Macalester (27% versus 28%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Macalester is usually the cheaper option ($30,555 versus $39,882 per year on average).
- On testing, Macalester is test-optional while Reed is test-blind.
- 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.
Macalester vs Reed FAQ
Is Macalester or Reed harder to get into?
Reed is harder to get into, admitting about 27% of applicants versus 28% at Macalester.
Is Macalester or Reed cheaper?
After financial aid, Macalester is usually cheaper, about $30,555 per year on average versus $39,882 at Reed.
See your real chances at Macalester and Reed.
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