Purdue University-Main Campus vs Carnegie Mellon University

West Lafayette, IN — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location West Lafayette, IN Pittsburgh, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 44,503 7,304
Acceptance Rate 49.9% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,364 1,546
In-State Tuition $9,992 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $28,794 $66,246
Avg Net Price $14,600 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 83.1% 93.3%
Retention Rate 92.7% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,838 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $72,424 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 887400.0% 138300.0%

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

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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Purdue University-Main Campus and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) has an acceptance rate of 49.9%, in-state tuition of $9,992, and median 10-year earnings of $72,424. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Purdue University-Main Campus or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Purdue University-Main Campus or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Purdue University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $14,600 per year versus $31,944.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Carnegie Mellon University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.3% vs 83.1%.

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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