College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs Northwestern 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
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
15,888
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
7,377
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
7.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1510–1570
ACT Range
34–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
33,941
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$31,671
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$59,864
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,864
$62,391
Room & Board
$18,166
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$48,107
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Carnegie Mellon is in Pittsburgh, PA
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carnegie Mellon University is $31,671 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $4,528 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 Northwestern University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 89%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern 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 Northwestern University has a ratio of 6:1. 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 Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $114,862, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern 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. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

