Macalester College
Saint Paul, United States • Founded 1874
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: macalester.edu
Overview
Founded in 1874, the Macalester College is a non-profit private liberal arts higher education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Saint Paul (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Minnesota.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Macalester College (Mac) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Presbyterian religion. Macalester College (Mac) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees in several areas of study.
This 149-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 30-39% making this US higher education organization a very selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
Mac also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Address, contact details, and online presence for Macalester College are summarised below.
Academic Details
The figures below cover Macalester College's scale, staffing levels, and academic standing.
Academic Structures
Below is how Macalester College is organised academically — the schools, faculties, and units.
Unit 24 items
- Anthropology
- Art and Art History
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Classical Mediterranean and Middle East
- Economics
- Educational Studies
- English and Creative Writing
- French and Francophone Studies
- Geography
- Geology
- German Studies
- History
- Linguistics
- Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science
- Music
- Neuroscience
- Philosophy
- Physics and Astronomy
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Theater and Dance
Programs Offered
Below are Macalester College's active programmes, grouped by degree level, with search.
45 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 45 programmes
Showing 10 of 45.
How to apply to Macalester College
A five-step guide to applying to Macalester College.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Macalester College's catalogue includes 45 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Macalester College's admissions process.
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3
Assemble your application package
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit your application
Submit your completed application through Macalester College's official website at www.macalester.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (651) 696 6000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Macalester College
Common questions about Macalester College — answers from its published profile.
How old is Macalester College?
The institution opened in 1874 (approximately 152 years ago).
In which city is Macalester College?
Macalester College is based in Saint Paul, United States.
What is Macalester College's control type?
Macalester College operates as a private institution.
How many students study at Macalester College?
Macalester College has approximately 2,131 students.
Does Macalester College have a religious affiliation?
Macalester College operates within the Christian-Presbyterian tradition.
How many faculties does Macalester College have?
Macalester College is organised into 24 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises Macalester College?
The institution holds recognition from Higher Learning Commission.
Where can I learn more about Macalester College?
You can find Macalester College online at www.macalester.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Below: the United States's top-ranked universities, providing benchmarks for Macalester College's academic standing. National rankings reflect a mix of research output, teaching quality, and graduate outcomes.
Members of Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U)
Macalester College and the universities below are both members of Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U).
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Presbyterian
Other Christian-Presbyterian-affiliated institutions in the United States appear below.
Faculties at nearby universities
Below are universities in the same area as Macalester College.
Where Else to Study Linguistics & Language Studies
Other institutions in the United States teaching Linguistics & Language Studies are listed below for comparison with Macalester College.
Universities Compared with Macalester College
The institutions below are of a similar academic scale to Macalester College.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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