Apply & Afford

Finding the perfect college is exciting. It can also be daunting. We’re here to guide you through the process of applying to Carleton — including the part where you learn how affordable it can be.

A student writing at a table — How to Apply

The application process doesn’t need to be complicated. Trust us: we’ll walk you through the steps you’ll need to take.

Details for Applicants

parent hugs student wearing cap and gown — You Can Afford Carleton

Our robust financial aid program allows us to support students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds.

Cost and Financial Aid

Dates to Remember

Fall Early Decision:

Deadline: November 15
Notification By: December 15

Winter Early Decision:

Deadline: January 15
Notification By: February 15

Regular Decision:

Deadline: January 15
Notification By: April 1

QuestBridge:

Deadline: late September
Notification By: December 1

Transfer:

Deadline: March 31
Notification By: May 15

Financial Aid Documents:

Deadline: same as admissions round
Notification: with acceptance letter

Admissions Requirements

Learn About Campus Jobs

Nearly 80% of Carleton students have a campus job. Read on to learn more about some of the positions you can hold.

Building a Community

“Work-study is such a positive aspect of financial aid. It lessens the cost load. And it adds something meaningful that connects you with a lot of people on campus.” — Roy Cady-Kimble, Resident Assistant

Students and a professor work in a biology lab

Helping Your Classmates Learn

Many academic departments have student employees help with classes, labs, and research opportunities.

Leadership Through Athletics

“As a Basketball Czar, I organize basketball leagues and schedules. I make sure everything runs smoothly on game nights and I’m the contact for captains. Being a Czar has given me a huge sense of responsibility.” — Adriana Castillo, Intramural Basketball Czar

Skills to Last a Lifetime

“In the dining hall I learned to think and act quickly and to get perspective. What gets done now and what in half an hour? There’s great community among dining hall staff, which we built through respect and communication.” — Martha Durrett, Student Dining Manager

Students in caps and gowns process towards commencement

Financial aid was a big factor in my college decision. I plan on going to graduate school, so I didn't want to accumulate a lot of student loans as an undergrad. Carleton offered the best financial aid.
Sam Chao

Skokie, IL

A student writes at the board in a Japanese class

Carleton worked with me and my parents to come up with tuition aid that matched our personal circumstance, and not spat out of a calculator. It meant a lot that they were willing to listen to our story and not just the numbers!
Emily Balczewski

Newburgh, IN

A student engaged with her work-study position

This experience [as a Northfield Reads and Counts Tutor] taught me leadership skills I need for my future career in international diplomacy. I've learned how to deal with power and use it positively.
Jordyn Pigott

Hollis, NY

<p>Students have a conversation during a poster session for student research and externship positions</p>

Carleton students don’t dismiss ideas that are not their own by saying ‘That doesn’t make sense’ or ‘That’s silly.’ Instead they are willing to confront, explore, and engage ideas outside of their own personal view. It’s wonderful to see them develop a nimble intellect that way.
Cathy Yandell

Professor, French department