Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs Carnegie Mellon University

Blacksburg, VA — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Blacksburg, VA Pittsburgh, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 30,923 7,304
Acceptance Rate 54.8% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,364 1,546
In-State Tuition $15,948 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $37,764 $66,246
Avg Net Price $24,953 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.3% 93.3%
Retention Rate 93.1% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $67,377 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $81,698 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 661700.0% 138300.0%

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

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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698. 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, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $81,698. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is the more affordable option at $24,953 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 86.3%.

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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