College Comparison
Carnegie Mellon University vs Vanderbilt 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
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
15,888
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
7,377
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
5.9%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1500–1570
1500–1570
ACT Range
34–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$50
Total Applicants
33,941
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,030
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$31,671
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$59,864
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,864
$58,130
Room & Board
$18,166
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$48,107
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
77.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Carnegie Mellon is in Pittsburgh, PA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carnegie Mellon University is $31,671 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $12,631 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 Vanderbilt 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 Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt 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 Vanderbilt University has a ratio of 8:1. 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 Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $114,862, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt 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. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

