Carnegie Mellon University vs University of Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, PA — Philadelphia, PA

Metric
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Location Pittsburgh, PA Philadelphia, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,304 10,650
Acceptance Rate 11.7% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,546 1,553
In-State Tuition $66,246 $68,686
Out-of-State Tuition $66,246 $68,686
Avg Net Price $31,944 $28,699
Median Debt at Graduation $21,750 $15,715
4-Year Graduation Rate 93.3% 96.7%
Retention Rate 98.0% 98.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $105,360 $90,555
Median Earnings (10 yr) $114,862 $111,371
Loan Repayment Rate 138300.0% 202200.0%

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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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Carnegie Mellon University and University of Pennsylvania 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. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) has an acceptance rate of 5.4%, in-state tuition of $68,686, and median 10-year earnings of $111,371.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Carnegie Mellon University or University of Pennsylvania?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $111,371. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Carnegie Mellon University or University of Pennsylvania?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Pennsylvania is the more affordable option at $28,699 per year versus $31,944.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Pennsylvania has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.7% 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