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College Comparison

Carnegie Mellon University vs Virginia Tech: 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

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCarnegie MellonVirginia Tech
Acceptance Rate11.4%wins57.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1570wins1240–1420
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins27–32
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,829$36,694wins
Avg Net Price$31,671$23,790wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$114,862wins$81,698
Graduation Rate92.5%wins86.3%
Retention Rate97.0%wins91.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio5:1wins17:1
Total Enrollment7,18730,435wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out Virginia Tech 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

Virginia Tech Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $36,694
  • Avg Net Price: $23,790
  • Total Enrollment: 30,435

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