College Comparison
Columbia University vs Carnegie Mellon 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
Columbia University
New York, NY
School
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | Carnegie Mellon |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 11.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570 | 1500–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $63,829wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148wins | $31,671 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491 | $114,862wins |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0%wins | 92.5% |
| Retention Rate | 97.2%wins | 97.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 5:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899wins | 7,187 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Columbia edges out Carnegie Mellon on 5 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.
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $20,148
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.0%
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.2%
Carnegie Mellon Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,829
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 5:1
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