College Comparison
Harvard 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
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
School
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | Carnegie Mellon |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 11.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $63,829 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $31,671 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817 | $114,862wins |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 92.5% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 97.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 5:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755wins | 7,187 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Carnegie Mellon on 6 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.
Harvard Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
- ✓Graduation Rate: 97.3%
Carnegie Mellon Strengths
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 5:1
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.