Stanford University vs Carnegie Mellon University

Stanford, CA — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Stanford, CA Pittsburgh, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,554 7,304
Acceptance Rate 3.6% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,553 1,546
In-State Tuition $65,910 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $65,910 $66,246
Avg Net Price $13,807 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $12,000 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 92.4% 93.3%
Retention Rate 98.2% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $102,887 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $124,080 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 62500.0% 138300.0%

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

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Stanford University
Stanford, CA
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Stanford University and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Stanford University (Stanford, CA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $65,910, and median 10-year earnings of $124,080. 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, Stanford University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Stanford University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $124,080 vs $114,862. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Stanford University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Stanford University is the more affordable option at $13,807 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 92.4%.

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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