Private nonprofit Institution

Carnegie Mellon University — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Annual Tuition $63,829

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 11.4%

Most Selective

Enrollment 7,187

Active Students

Avg. Salary $114,862

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Carnegie Mellon University stands as a pillar of higher education in Pittsburgh, providing a robust academic foundation for 7,187 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Carnegie Mellon University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Carnegie Mellon University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Engineering

21.9%

Enrollment Share

Computer Science

17.6%

Enrollment Share

Mathematics

12.4%

Enrollment Share

Visual & Performing Arts

9.9%

Enrollment Share

Business & Marketing

9.1%

Enrollment Share

Multi/Interdisciplinary

8.5%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Engineering College

The Engineering curriculum focuses on innovation and real-world problem solving...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Computer Science College

The Computer Science department is a hub for cutting-edge research...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Mathematics College

The Mathematics program at Carnegie Mellon University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at Carnegie Mellon University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Multi/Interdisciplinary College

The Multi/Interdisciplinary program at Carnegie Mellon University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Carnegie Mellon University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 11.4%

Difficulty Extremely High

Carnegie Mellon University maintains an acceptance rate of 11.4%, reflecting its status as a most selective institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 50%

Women Enrollment 50%

Test Score Ranges (25th - 75th Percentile)

SAT

ACT

SAT Reading 730 - 770

SAT Mathematics 770 - 800

ACT English 34 - 35

ACT Mathematics 33 - 36

Expert Insight

Competitive scores often fall within or exceed these typical 50% benchmarks for admitted students.

How much does Carnegie Mellon University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $63,829

Out-of-State Tuition $63,829

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 15.2%

Median Student Debt $21,750

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $63,829, graduates see a median starting salary of $114,862, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Pennsylvania.

What salary can Carnegie Mellon University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $114,862

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 92.5%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $31,671

Median Salary (6yr) $105,360

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh?

7,187 Students

Gender Comparison

50% Men

50% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

97%

Retention First-year

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian

Pacific Islander

Asian

33.6%

Black

4.2%

White

21.6%

Unknown

5.2%

Hispanic

10.8%

Two or More Races

5.4%

International

19.1%

Campus Demographics

🎂

Avg. Age at Entry 19

🎓

First-Generation 10%

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Receive Pell Grant 35%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$81,652
Average Family Income	$107,339
Median Family Income	$91,372

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

66.6%

33.4%

Women Men

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Pittsburgh Campus Environment

Located at 5000 Forbes Avenue, Carnegie Mellon University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Pennsylvania. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

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How does Carnegie Mellon University compare?

Direct Comparison Carnegie Mellon University vs CC of Allegheny County →

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Common Questions about Carnegie Mellon University

Is Carnegie Mellon University a good college in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?

Carnegie Mellon University is a recognized institution in Pittsburgh with an enrollment of 7,187 students. It is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education and offers a robust ROI for students in Pennsylvania based on Department of Education data.

Is Carnegie Mellon University worth attending in 2026?

Yes, Carnegie Mellon University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $114,862. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.

How much does Carnegie Mellon University cost for Pennsylvania residents in 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Carnegie Mellon University is approximately $63,829. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $63,829. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.

What is the real cost of Carnegie Mellon University after financial aid and FAFSA?

The real cost of attending Carnegie Mellon University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 35% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.

Is Carnegie Mellon University good for Engineering and Computer Science programs?

Carnegie Mellon University is highly regarded for its Engineering and Computer Science programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.

What career can I get after attending Carnegie Mellon University?

Graduates of Carnegie Mellon University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Engineering. With a median salary of $114,862, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.

What are the admission requirements for Carnegie Mellon University?

Carnegie Mellon University operates with a Most Selective policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.

Does Carnegie Mellon University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

No, Carnegie Mellon University follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.

What salary can Carnegie Mellon University graduates expect after 10 years?

Graduates of Carnegie Mellon University earn a median salary of $114,862 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.

Is Carnegie Mellon University a good investment compared to other PA colleges?

Carnegie Mellon University stands out as a high-value investment in Pennsylvania. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.

Where is Carnegie Mellon University located and what is the campus like?

Carnegie Mellon University is located at 5000 Forbes Avenue in Pittsburgh, PA. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 7,187 learners.

Who typically attends Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA?

The student body at Carnegie Mellon University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 10% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.

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2026 Rankings: Pennsylvania

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Carnegie Mellon University with other leading institutions in Pennsylvania across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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