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College Comparison

Carnegie Mellon University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins: 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

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, CO

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCarnegie MellonColorado State
Acceptance Rate11.4%wins89.6%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1570winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,829$33,751wins
Avg Net Price$31,671$20,332wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$114,862wins$60,543
Graduation Rate92.5%wins66.9%
Retention Rate97.0%wins84.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio5:1wins17:1
Total Enrollment7,18725,148wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out Colorado State on 6 of 9 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
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
  • Graduation Rate: 92.5%

Colorado State Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,751
  • Avg Net Price: $20,332
  • Total Enrollment: 25,148

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