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College comparison
Grinnell vs Tulane
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 |  Grinnell Grinnell, IA |  Tulane New Orleans, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateTulane University of Louisiana is more selective | 15% | 14% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1410–1540 | 1400–1520 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 1,729 | 7,767 |
| Avg net price | $17,648 | $39,949 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Tulane reports higher median earnings | $62,830 | $63,268 |
| Graduation rate | 88% | 86% |
| Median debt | $17,500 | $20,500 |
| Economic mobility | 1.5% | — |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Grinnell vs Tulane: how they compare
Two similarly selective private institutions offering distinct value propositions and campus experiences.
By the numbers Both schools are comparably selective (Grinnell 15%, Tulane 14%) and enroll students with similar academic profiles (SAT 25–75: Grinnell 1410–1540, Tulane 1400–1520). Their 10-year median earnings are identical at $63k. The defining quantitative contrast is in value and cost. Grinnell’s average net price is $18k, yielding a high value score of 3.6x earnings per dollar of net price, while Tulane’s average net price is $40k for a value score of 1.6x. Grinnell shows superior economic mobility (146% rate) and a stronger pipeline to future Science & Engineering PhDs (12.1 future-scholar yield). Grinnell also has a higher DOE financial-health score (3.0/3) and greater year-to-year admit-rate volatility (86% vs. Tulane’s 35%). Graduation rates are closely matched (Grinnell 88%, Tulane 86%).
Where they overlap Both are nationally recognized private institutions with strong graduation outcomes and highly selective admissions. They attract academically capable students and provide a rigorous undergraduate education.
How they differ The experience is defined by setting and culture. Grinnell is a focused liberal arts college in an Iowa college town, promoting a close-knit, intellectually driven community. Tulane is a larger research university in New Orleans, offering a dynamic social scene and major urban energy. The cultural tone differs: Grinnell’s is often described as academically intense and self-directed, while Tulane blends strong academics with a social life and immersion in its unique location.
Who each suits Grinnell suits the student seeking a high-value, immersive liberal arts education in a collaborative, residential community, where academic exploration is paramount. Tulane is ideal for the student who wants a traditional university experience fused with the culture and energy of a major city, valuing social engagement and location as key components of their college life.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Grinnell College or Tulane University of Louisiana harder to get into?
- Tulane University of Louisiana is more selective: Grinnell College's acceptance rate is approximately 15% and Tulane University of Louisiana's is approximately 14% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Grinnell College vs Tulane University of Louisiana?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1410–1540 at Grinnell College and 1400–1520 at Tulane University of Louisiana. 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.