Georgetown University vs Grinnell College

Georgetown University is the more selective of the two at 12%, versus 12% at Grinnell College. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Georgetown University
Highly selective
12%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1520
Private · Washington, D.C.
Grinnell College
Highly selective
12%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1470
Private · Iowa

Georgetown University vs Grinnell College: the differences that matter

How Georgetown University and Grinnell College stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Georgetown University and Grinnell College are almost equally selective (12% vs 12%), 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. Georgetown University leans more on class rank, standardized test scores, interview, while Grinnell College puts more weight on extracurricular activities, talent / ability. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Georgetown University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1520 and Grinnell College's is around 1470. Admitted students at Georgetown University 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.

FactorGeorgetown UniversityGrinnell College
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresvery importantimportant
Application essayvery importantvery important
Recommendationsvery importantvery important
Interviewvery importantconsidered
Extracurricular activitiesimportantvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Georgetown University or Grinnell College harder to get into?

Georgetown University is harder to get into, with a 12% acceptance rate versus 12% at Grinnell College.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Georgetown University and Grinnell College?

Georgetown University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1520, and Grinnell College's is around 1470.

What are my chances at Georgetown University and Grinnell College?

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