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St Olaf College and Bemidji State University are both private nonprofit institutions — St Olaf College in Northfield, MN and Bemidji State University in Bemidji, MN. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Northfield, MN · Private
Acceptance rate: 48.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,093
Tuition: $59,760/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 84.0%
Top programs: Social sciences, Biological sciences, Physical sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Northfield, MN with published program strength in Social sciences and Biological sciences.
Bemidji, MN · Public
Acceptance rate: 56.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,139
Tuition: $10,237/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 47.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Bemidji, MN with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | St Olaf College | Bemidji State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 48.3% | 56.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1300–1470 |
| 1090 average |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 28–32 | 18–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 3,093 | 3,139 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $59,760/year | $10,237/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,874 | $15,261 |
| Graduation rate | 84.0% | 47.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $65,543 | $53,755 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Location | Northfield, MN | Bemidji, MN |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Biological sciences, Physical sciences | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology |
St Olaf College is more selective (48.3% vs 56.0% acceptance rate). Bemidji State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,261 vs $23,874). St Olaf College reports the higher graduation rate (84.0% vs 47.9%). Bemidji State University is the larger undergraduate campus (3,139 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between St Olaf College and Bemidji State University
St Olaf College has an acceptance rate of 48.3%; Bemidji State University is around 56.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
St Olaf College tuition is $59,760/year. Bemidji State University is $10,237/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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