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College Comparison

Carnegie Mellon University vs Stony Brook 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

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCarnegie MellonStony Brook
Acceptance Rate11.4%wins49.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1570wins1320–1490
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins28–33
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,829$30,350wins
Avg Net Price$31,671$18,430wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$114,862wins$74,502
Graduation Rate92.5%wins77.8%
Retention Rate97.0%wins88.7%
Student–Faculty Ratio5:1wins19:1
Total Enrollment7,18717,420wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out Stony Brook 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

Stony Brook Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $30,350
  • Avg Net Price: $18,430
  • Total Enrollment: 17,420

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