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College comparison
Denison University vs Grinnell
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Denison University Granville, OH |  Grinnell Grinnell, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateGrinnell College is more selective | 17% | 15% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1320–1490 | 1410–1540 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 2,380 | 1,729 |
| Avg net price | $40,007 | $17,648 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Denison University reports higher median earnings | $67,753 | $62,830 |
| Graduation rate | 79% | 88% |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $17,500 |
| Economic mobility | 0.9% | 1.5% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Denison University vs Grinnell: how they compare
For a data-driven family comparing two top liberal arts colleges, the choice hinges on quantitative value versus qualitative campus culture.
By the numbers Grinnell holds a clear edge in financial metrics and student outcomes. Its average net price is $18k versus Denison's $40k, creating a far stronger financial value at 3.6× earnings per dollar of net price compared to Denison's 1.7×. Grinnell also boasts a superior economic-mobility rate (146% vs. 94%) and a perfect 3.0/3 DOE financial-health score (Denison: 2.2/3). Academically, Grinnell is more selective (15% acceptance vs. 17%) with a higher SAT middle-50% range (1410–1540 vs. 1320–1490) and graduation rate (88% vs. 79%). Denison's 10-year median earnings are higher at $68k versus Grinnell's $63k.
Where they overlap Both are highly selective, private liberal arts colleges with strong commitments to undergraduate education and demonstrated success in fostering economic mobility for their students.
How they differ The contrast is notable in environment and culture. Grinnell is located in an Iowa college town, fostering a studious and intellectual community. Denison offers a suburban Ohio setting, with a social scene that includes a significant artsy and alternative culture alongside more traditional elements.
Who each suits Grinnell suits the curious, self-directed student who thrives in a close-knit, academically rigorous environment defined by its intellectual focus and strong financial value. Denison is a fit for the student seeking an arts-influenced campus culture within a suburban setting, who may prioritize slightly higher median early-career earnings and a socially balanced experience.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Denison University or Grinnell College harder to get into?
- Grinnell College is more selective: Denison University's acceptance rate is approximately 17% and Grinnell College's is approximately 15% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Denison University vs Grinnell College?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1320–1490 at Denison University and 1410–1540 at Grinnell College. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.