College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs University of Colorado Boulder: 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
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Carnegie Mellon | CU Boulder |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 11.4%wins | 83.3% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1570wins | 1230–1420 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 28–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,829 | $41,943wins |
| Avg Net Price | $31,671 | $21,480wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $114,862wins | $69,738 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.5%wins | 75.0% |
| Retention Rate | 97.0%wins | 89.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 5:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,187 | 31,578wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out CU Boulder 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.
Carnegie Mellon Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 11.4%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
CU Boulder Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $41,943
- ✓Avg Net Price: $21,480
- ✓Total Enrollment: 31,578
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