College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs American 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
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
School
American University
Washington, DC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Carnegie Mellon | American University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 11.4%wins | 47.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1570wins | 1300–1450 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,829 | $56,543wins |
| Avg Net Price | $31,671wins | $41,945 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $114,862wins | $77,370 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.5%wins | 78.5% |
| Retention Rate | 97.0%wins | 86.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 5:1wins | 10:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,187 | 7,593wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out American University on 8 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.
Carnegie Mellon Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 11.4%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Avg Net Price: $31,671
American University Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $56,543
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,593
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