College Comparison
Northeastern 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
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
School
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northeastern | Carnegie Mellon |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 9.9%wins | 11.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1460–1550 | 1500–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | 34–35wins |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,141wins | $63,829 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,116 | $31,671wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $92,538 | $114,862wins |
| Graduation Rate | 90.4% | 92.5%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.5%wins | 97.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 16:1 | 5:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 15,719wins | 7,187 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Carnegie Mellon edges out Northeastern on 6 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.
Northeastern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 9.9%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,141
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.5%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 15,719
Carnegie Mellon Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Avg Net Price: $31,671
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $114,862
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.