College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs Rice 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
Rice University
Houston, TX
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Carnegie Mellon | Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 11.4% | 7.9%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1570 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,829 | $58,128wins |
| Avg Net Price | $31,671 | $12,640wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $114,862wins | $89,718 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.5% | 95.7%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.0% | 97.6%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 5:1wins | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,187wins | 4,562 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Rice edges out Carnegie Mellon on 5 of 8 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 5:1
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,187
Rice Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 7.9%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,128
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,640
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.7%
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