Carnegie Mellon University: Is It Worth It?
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
8.0
Net Price/Year
$31,944
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$114,862
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$21,750
at graduation
Is Carnegie Mellon University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $114,862 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $31,944 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $127,776.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.1 years.
The median graduate leaves with $21,750 in debt, which represents about 19%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
Avg SAT
1546
ACT Midpoint
34
Enrollment
7,304
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
93.3%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
98.0%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
138300.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$66,246
Out-of-State Tuition
$66,246
Avg Net Price
$31,944
After grants/scholarships
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carnegie Mellon University worth the money?
Based on federal data, Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn a median of $114,862 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $21,750 at graduation. The ROI score is 8.0.
What do Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon University graduates is $105,360 six years after enrollment and $114,862 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Carnegie Mellon University?
The acceptance rate at Carnegie Mellon University is 11.7%.
How much debt do Carnegie Mellon University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Carnegie Mellon University students is $21,750.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.