Bucknell University vs Macalester College

Bucknell University is the more selective of the two at 29%, versus 29% at Macalester College. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Bucknell University
Selective
29%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1410
Private · Pennsylvania
Macalester College
Selective
29%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1440
Private · Minnesota

Bucknell University vs Macalester College: the differences that matter

How Bucknell University and Macalester College stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Bucknell University and Macalester College are almost equally selective (29% vs 29%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Bucknell University leans more on class rank, while Macalester College puts more weight on extracurricular activities, talent / ability, character / personal qualities. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Bucknell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1410 and Macalester College's is around 1440. Admitted students at Macalester College post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorBucknell UniversityMacalester College
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresimportantimportant
Application essayimportantimportant
Recommendationsimportantimportant
Extracurricular activitiesconsideredimportant
Talent / abilityconsideredimportant
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Bucknell University or Macalester College harder to get into?

Bucknell University is harder to get into, with a 29% acceptance rate versus 29% at Macalester College.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Bucknell University and Macalester College?

Bucknell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1410, and Macalester College's is around 1440.

What are my chances at Bucknell University and Macalester College?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.