Rice University vs Carnegie Mellon University

Houston, TX — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Rice University
Houston, TX
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Houston, TX Pittsburgh, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 4,776 7,304
Acceptance Rate 8.0% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,553 1,546
In-State Tuition $64,144 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $64,144 $66,246
Avg Net Price $13,370 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $11,000 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.2% 93.3%
Retention Rate 97.4% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $79,751 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $89,718 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 41300.0% 138300.0%

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

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Rice University
Houston, TX
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Rice University and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Rice University (Houston, TX) has an acceptance rate of 8.0%, in-state tuition of $64,144, and median 10-year earnings of $89,718. 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, Rice University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $89,718. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Rice University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Rice University is the more affordable option at $13,370 per year versus $31,944.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Rice University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.2% 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