Carleton's financial aid is primarily need-based. This means that we try to meet 100% of demonstrated need for every student through a variety of sources, including grants, scholarships, loans and work-study. Those scholarships that are included in a student's financial aid package are typically not merit-based. That is, students are granted scholarships to meet demonstrated need, not to reward them for past achievements.

Around 50% of Carleton students qualify for some form of financial aid. 65% of financial aid awards are in the form of need-based grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid. The average Carleton grant: $25,831, though the size of the grant will vary from one student to another based on the family's financial profile. More about Carleton financial aid.