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College comparison
Carnegie Mellon vs Cornell
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Carnegie Mellon Pittsburgh, PA |  Cornell Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateCornell University is more selective | 12% | 9% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1500–1570 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 7,304 | 15,995 |
| Avg net price | $31,944 | $28,690 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Carnegie Mellon reports higher median earnings | $114,862 | $104,043 |
| Graduation rate | 94% | 95% |
| Median debt | $21,750 | $14,000 |
| Economic mobility | 2.2% | 2.9% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Carnegie Mellon vs Cornell: how they compare
Two universities with distinct identities and overlapping quantitative strength, where the choice hinges on cultural fit and academic focus.
By the numbers Based on AdmitQuant data, the schools are peers in key metrics: both report an SAT 25-75th percentile range of 1500–1570, an identical 3.6× value ratio (earnings per dollar of net price), and similar graduation rates (94% for CMU vs. 95% for Cornell). The differences are nuanced. Cornell is slightly more selective (9% acceptance vs. 12%) and shows a stronger economic-mobility rate (291% vs. 219%). Carnegie Mellon graduates report higher 10-year median earnings ($115k vs. $104k), has a slightly stronger DOE financial-health score (3.0/3 vs. 2.7/3), but exhibits higher admit-rate volatility (51% vs. 39%). Both have similar "future-scholar" yields in science & engineering PhDs (8 vs. 9).
Where they overlap Both are highly selective, high-achieving institutions that produce graduates with strong financial outcomes and academic trajectories. They attract motivated students.
How they differ Culturally, the profiles suggest a contrast. Carnegie Mellon (CMU) is often characterized as focused on technical and creative disciplines, with a rigorous workload. Cornell, as part of the Ivy League, offers broad resources across diverse fields, with a location in Ithaca that is often noted for its distinct setting.
Who each suits Carnegie Mellon suits a student particularly interested in computer science, engineering, or the arts, who prioritizes strong industry earnings and a culture of focused, interdisciplinary work. Cornell is for a student who values a comprehensive university experience across a wide array of disciplines within the Ivy League context.
Quick answers
- Is Carnegie Mellon University or Cornell University harder to get into?
- Cornell University is more selective: Carnegie Mellon University's acceptance rate is approximately 12% and Cornell University's is approximately 9% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Carnegie Mellon University vs Cornell University?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1500–1570 at Carnegie Mellon University and 1500–1570 at Cornell University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.