College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs Harvard 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
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
15,888
30,259
Undergrad Enrollment
7,377
8,844
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
3.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1510–1580
ACT Range
34–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
33,941
54,008
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$73,849
Avg Net Price
$31,671
$16,816
Tuition (In-State)
$59,864
$52,659
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,864
$52,659
Room & Board
$18,166
$21,190
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$48,107
$68,015
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$101,817
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
Carnegie Mellon is in Pittsburgh, PA
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carnegie Mellon University is $31,671 per year, compared to $16,816 at Harvard University. Harvard University is $14,855 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 Harvard University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 89%, while Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%. Harvard 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 Harvard University has a ratio of 7:1. Carnegie Mellon 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 Harvard University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,015.
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $114,862, compared to $101,817 for Harvard 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. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

