College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs Rice 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
Houston, TX
Total Enrollment
15,888
8,961
Undergrad Enrollment
7,377
4,789
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
8.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1500–1570
1510–1570
ACT Range
34–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
33,941
32,473
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$72,200
Avg Net Price
$31,671
$12,640
Tuition (In-State)
$59,864
$54,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,864
$54,100
Room & Board
$18,166
$18,100
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$48,107
$56,199
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$89,718
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Explore by Location
Carnegie Mellon is in Pittsburgh, PA
Rice is in Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carnegie Mellon University is $31,671 per year, compared to $12,640 at Rice University. Rice University is $19,031 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 Rice 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 Rice University has a graduation rate of 93%. Rice 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 Rice 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 Rice University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,199.
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $114,862, compared to $89,718 for Rice 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. Rice University is located in Houston, TX in a city: large setting.

