College Comparison
Boston University vs Carnegie Mellon University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Boston University
Boston, MA
School
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Boston University | Carnegie Mellon |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 10.8%wins | 11.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1400–1520 | 1500–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 32–34 | 34–35wins |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,168 | $63,829wins |
| Avg Net Price | $26,996wins | $31,671 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $83,238 | $114,862wins |
| Graduation Rate | 90.0% | 92.5%wins |
| Retention Rate | 94.5% | 97.0%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1 | 5:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 17,850wins | 7,187 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out Boston University on 7 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Boston University Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 10.8%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $26,996
- ✓Total Enrollment: 17,850
Carnegie Mellon Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,829
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
Want a deeper comparison?
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