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Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #20 US News

FindU Grade

AValue
N/ACampus
A+Academics
A+Admissions
A-Student Life
AOverall

About

Carnegie Mellon University is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 7,187 students.

cmu.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$63,829
Out-of-state tuition$63,829
Room & board$17,468
Avg aid package$47,550
Students receiving aid15%
Pell grant recipients15%

Carnegie Mellon demonstrates a commitment to financial accessibility through initiatives like the CMU Pathway Program, which aims to reduce the financial strain on students. While tuition is significant, the university offers substantial financial aid, with 58% of students receiving assistance. This commitment ensures that a quality education is within reach for deserving students from diverse economic backgrounds.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1500–1570
4001600
ACT · middle 50%34–35
136

Application info

Acceptance rate11%
Average GPA3.91
Student–faculty ratio5:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$75

Admission to Carnegie Mellon is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 11%. The university seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for innovation. While athletic recruiting is considered, applicants must meet rigorous academic criteria, and portfolios or auditions are crucial for those applying to the College of Fine Arts.

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Academics

Graduation rate92%
Retention rate97%
Student–faculty ratio5:1
Full-time faculty92%

Carnegie Mellon distinguishes itself with an interdisciplinary approach to research and education, fostering collaboration across its seven schools and colleges. The university emphasizes rigorous analysis and technology, creating a dynamic academic research community. With a focus on innovation and real-world problem-solving, CMU challenges students to deliver work that matters.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$114,862
Avg starting salary$138,900
Job placement rate91%
Earn more than HS grad89%
Economic mobility219%
Loan default (3 yr)1%
Loan repayment (3 yr)91%

Carnegie Mellon graduates are highly sought after for their problem-solving skills and talent, achieving top honors across various fields, including Nobel Prizes and Academy Awards. The university's strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world problem-solving prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. Job recruiters rank CMU graduates highly, particularly in computer science, finance, and economics.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
7,187Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 50%Male 50%
34% AsianRacial diversity
Asian 34%White 22%Hispanic 11%Black 4%Other 30%
Greek lifeYes
Campus housingYes

Carnegie Mellon offers a tight-knit community with over 400 student organizations catering to diverse interests, from social and academic groups to recreational and cultural clubs. While the social scene is described as low-key, students find camaraderie through shared interests and campus traditions. The university fosters an inclusive environment where students are passionate about their studies and supportive of one another.

About Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon is committed to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment through various security measures, including a dedicated University Police Department and emergency phone systems. The university actively promotes crime prevention and safety awareness through educational programs and collaborative efforts with local law enforcement. Residence halls are secured with electronic locks, and the university conducts regular security surveys to ensure adequate lighting and landscape control.

Carnegie Mellon offers various honors opportunities, including the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) program, which provides students with full-time, paid summer research experiences. The university also supports undergraduate research through small grants and apprenticeship programs, encouraging students to engage in research as early as their first year. These programs foster intellectual growth and prepare students for future careers in academia and beyond.

Carnegie Mellon is a global university with a diverse student body representing over 117 countries. The university provides support for international students through visa services, cultural resources, and a welcoming community. With campuses and degree programs around the world, CMU fosters a global perspective and encourages cross-cultural collaboration.

Endowment$3,118,739,643
Avg faculty salary$164,688

Carnegie Mellon University FAQ

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