Carnegie Mellon University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Pittsburgh, PA — New York, NY

Metric
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Pittsburgh, PA New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,304 8,973
Acceptance Rate 11.7% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,546 1,553
In-State Tuition $66,246 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $66,246 $71,845
Avg Net Price $31,944 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $21,750 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 93.3% 95.5%
Retention Rate 98.0% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $105,360 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $114,862 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 138300.0% 185800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Carnegie Mellon University and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) has an acceptance rate of 11.7%, in-state tuition of $66,246, and median 10-year earnings of $114,862. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Carnegie Mellon University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $102,491. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Carnegie Mellon University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia University in the City of New York is the more affordable option at $21,590 per year versus $31,944.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 93.3%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025