College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs Duke University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Durham, NC
Total Enrollment
15,888
17,499
Undergrad Enrollment
7,377
6,523
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
5.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1500–1570
ACT Range
34–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
33,941
51,795
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$78,563
Avg Net Price
$31,671
$34,454
Tuition (In-State)
$59,864
$60,435
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,864
$60,435
Room & Board
$18,166
$18,128
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
43.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$48,107
$65,522
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$97,800
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Explore by Location
Carnegie Mellon is in Pittsburgh, PA
Duke is in Durham, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carnegie Mellon University is $31,671 per year, compared to $34,454 at Duke University. Carnegie Mellon University is $2,783 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carnegie Mellon University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Duke University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 89%, while Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%. Duke University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carnegie Mellon University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Duke University has a ratio of 5:1. Duke University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Carnegie Mellon University, 51% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $48,107. At Duke University, 43% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,522.
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $114,862, compared to $97,800 for Duke University graduates. Graduates from Carnegie Mellon University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Carnegie Mellon University is located in Pittsburgh, PA in a city: large setting. Duke University is located in Durham, NC in a city: large setting.

