Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University has an acceptance rate of 11.7%, average net price of $31,944, and a national rank of #11 (Grade A+), with a 94.1% six-year graduation rate, and median earnings of $105,360 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Carnegie Mellon University is a private nonprofit university in Pittsburgh, PA. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.
Day to day, students benefit from a 5:1 student-faculty ratio. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 77.2%, roughly 27.3 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Carnegie Mellon University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Carnegie Mellon University graduates 94.1% of students within six years and does not report first-year retention. Affordability earns a C- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Carnegie Mellon University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | Not reported |
| Books and Supplies | Not reported |
| On-Campus Room and Board | Not reported |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | Not reported |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $83,654 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: Only 0.0% of Carnegie Mellon University students receive Pell Grants — far below the national average, underscoring equity challenges.
ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $105,360
- 10-Year Median Earnings $105,360
- Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
- Average Student Debt $20,250
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 91.2%
- Employment Rate 77.5%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Carnegie Mellon University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Carnegie Mellon University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Carnegie Mellon University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $105,360 median six years after enrollment, +141% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 730-770
- SAT Math 770-800
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 34-35
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate Not reported
- Graduation Rate 94.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 5:1
How to Get Into Carnegie Mellon University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Carnegie Mellon University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 11.7%, Carnegie Mellon University is highly selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Carnegie Mellon University's 11.7% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1500 and 1570 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Carnegie Mellon University undergraduates. Computer Science, Statistics, and Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engine draw the most students.
- Computer Science 12.9%
- Statistics 9.2%
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engine 7.6%
- Mechanical Engineering 7.1%
- Systems Science and Theory 6.9%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 6.3%
See more majors
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 3.4%
- Economics 2.9%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $251,632
- 2. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $183,814
- 3. Finance and Financial Management Services $177,848
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations $159,088
- 5. Statistics $155,025
- 6. Systems Science and Theory $133,740
- 7. Economics $132,407
- 8. Chemical Engineering $122,523
- 9. Mechanical Engineering $115,666
- 10. Civil Engineering $106,890
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $193,021
- 2. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degree) $176,502
- 3. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degree) $169,421
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $166,594
- 5. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degree) $156,313
- 6. Design and Applied Arts (Master's Degree) $120,888
- 7. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $119,019
- 8. Public Policy Analysis (Master's Degree) $114,079
- 9. Civil Engineering (Master's Degree) $111,544
- 10. Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degree) $109,987
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $251,632—135% more than Civil Engineering ($106,890). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $193,021 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Carnegie Mellon University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 237 graduates)
- Statistics (Bachelor's Degree, 169 graduates)
- Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degree, 158 graduates)
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degree, 155 graduates)
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degree, 140 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (88 programs)▼
- Computer Science
- Statistics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Systems Science and Theory
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Economics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Physics
- Chemical Engineering
- Mathematics and Statistics, Other
- Design and Applied Arts
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Materials Sciences
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Biology, General
- Applied Mathematics
- Mathematics
- Engineering, General
- Civil Engineering
- Chemistry
- Psychology, General
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- History
- Music
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Cognitive Science
- Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering
- Philosophy
- Public Policy Analysis
- Biopsychology
- Architecture
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- International/Global Studies
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Science, Technology and Society
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Engineering, Other
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Area Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Social Sciences, Other
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Psychology, Other
- Political Science and Government
- Physical Sciences
- Operations Research
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Nanotechnology
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Marketing
- Management Information Systems and Services
- International Business
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Environmental Design
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Engineering Physics
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Computer Programming
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Behavioral Sciences
- Architecture and Related Services, Other
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Apparel and Textiles
Online Master's Degrees (69 programs)▼
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Public Policy Analysis
- Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Computer Science
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Chemical Engineering
- Computational Science
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Materials Sciences
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Statistics
- Engineering, Other
- Engineering Science
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Engineering Technology, General
- Design and Applied Arts
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Music
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Public Administration
- Physics
- Human Computer Interaction
- Sustainability Studies
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Philosophy
- History
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Engineering, General
- Construction Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
- Economics
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Psychology, General
- Biology, General
- Social Sciences, Other
- Operations Research
- Engineering Mechanics
- Applied Mathematics
- Telecommunications Management
- Science, Technology and Society
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Psychology, Other
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Marketing
- Journalism
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- English Language and Literature, General
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Behavioral Sciences
- Architecture
- Accounting and Related Services
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Biological/Biosystems Engineering
Online Doctoral Degrees (57 programs)▼
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Sciences
- Physics
- Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering
- Engineering, General
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Economics
- Biology, General
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Psychology, General
- Mathematics
- History
- Computer Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Public Policy Analysis
- Philosophy
- Applied Mathematics
- Operations Research
- Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
- Engineering Mechanics
- Behavioral Sciences
- Architecture
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Engineering, Other
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Telecommunications Management
- Social Sciences, Other
- Science, Technology and Society
- Public Administration
- Psychology, Other
- Mathematics and Statistics, Other
- Marketing
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- English Language and Literature, General
- Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Construction Engineering
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Accounting and Related Services
- Systems Science and Theory
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)▼
- Music
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 0.0%
- Female Students 0.0%
- Caucasian 21.6%
- Asian 34.5%
- Hispanic 10.0%
- Black 4.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 0.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Carnegie Mellon University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Carnegie Mellon University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Carnegie Mellon University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Carnegie Mellon University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Carnegie Mellon University has a diverse student body, with 21.6% identifying as White. About 16.0% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Carnegie Mellon University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Carnegie Mellon University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Carnegie Mellon University ranks among the country's most prestigious, delivering a 77.2% ROI though 1305 institutions deliver higher returns at lower costs.
The institution achieves 81.4% four-year and 94.1% six-year completion ratesand maintains 98.0% first-year retention. However, the $31,944 annual net price positions this institution at the higher end of college costs. Post-graduation median earnings of $105,360 reflect strong career outcomes typical of selective institutions.
Value Analysis: Is Carnegie Mellon University Worth It?
Ranking #11 of 6119, Carnegie Mellon University delivers a A+ overall grade with 99.4/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total).
For High-Achieving Students: Applicants pursuing careers where institutional prestige and professional networks drive opportunities—such as finance, consulting, law, and academia—benefit most from Carnegie Mellon University's brand value and alumni connections. The school's reputation provides career acceleration that may justify the premium cost for specific fields.
Financial Aid Recipients: Students receiving substantial need-based aid (bringing actual costs below $15,972 annually) access elite education at a competitive price point. Pell-eligible students often pay less here than at many public universities.
Alternative Considerations: Students in fields where skills and credentials matter more than brand name—particularly STEM, healthcare, and technical fields—should compare outcomes against public research universities offering similar education at 40-60% lower cost. Our data shows 1305 institutions deliver superior ROI metrics.
Bottom Line: Carnegie Mellon University excels in reputation and student experience, reflected in its 98.0% retention rate. However, value-conscious students should weigh the $31,944 annual investment against 1305 alternatives offering stronger financial returns. The "best" choice depends on your field, financial situation, and career goals—not rankings alone.
Key Takeaways
- 94.1% six-year graduation rate sits 31.6 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 98.0% first-year retention is 21.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 77.2% return on investment is 27.3 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $105,360 run about 141% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $31,944 is roughly $14,518 higher than the national median of $17,426.
Helpfulness for Students
- 5:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 98.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 77.5% employment rate within three years sits 9.3 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $31,944 is about $14,518 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Carnegie Mellon University is a private nonprofit university based in Pittsburgh, PA and earns a A+ overall grade. It stands at #11 among 6119 schools Grades by category break down as Completion A+, Support A+, Career Outcomes A+, and Affordability C-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
The six-year graduation rate hovers around 94.1%. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 77.2%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $31,944 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $83,654.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $51,710 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $20,250 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
Pell Grant participation data is not reported.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $105,360 six years after enrollment. That sits about 141% above the national median.
Roughly 77.5% of graduates are employed three years out.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 77.2%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
11.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Carnegie Mellon University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carnegie Mellon University's acceptance rate?
Carnegie Mellon University's acceptance rate is 11.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Carnegie Mellon University cost?
At Carnegie Mellon University, the average net price after aid is $31,944. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Carnegie Mellon University's ranking?
Carnegie Mellon University ranks #11 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Carnegie Mellon University's graduation rate?
At Carnegie Mellon University, the six-year graduation rate is 94.1%.
What are Carnegie Mellon University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Carnegie Mellon University report median earnings of $105,360 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
Contact Information
- Address Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3890
- Website www.cmu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$3.12B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate1.9%