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AdmissionsOS

Carnegie Mellon University vs Central Penn College

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

Carnegie Mellon University Central Penn College
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 11.7% 18.5%
SAT range (mid 50%) 1,500-1,570 n/a
ACT range (mid 50%) 34-35 n/a
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $31,944 $18,953
Sticker cost of attendance $83,654 $27,116
Graduation rate 94% 51%
Retention rate 98% 65%
Undergraduates 7,304 662
Student-faculty ratio 5:1 7:1
Setting Pittsburgh, PA Summerdale, PA
Type Private nonprofit Private for-profit
Application fee $75 n/a
Test policy Required for some n/a

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.

Common questions

Is Carnegie Mellon University or Central Penn College harder to get into?

Carnegie Mellon University is more selective, with a 11.7% acceptance rate versus 18.5% at Central Penn College. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, Carnegie Mellon University or Central Penn College?

Central Penn College has the lower average net price ($18,953 versus $31,944). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.