The university known simply as CMU has a rich history in design, theater, and technological innovation. But the university also has a lot to offer, such as an extremely competitive undergraduate business program.
CMU, which has a lovely campus just outside of Pittsburgh, hums with creative energy. A number of the most distinguished academics and business leaders in the world have graduated from the university’s renowned School of Computer Science, helping to launch cutting-edge tech companies like DuoLingo. Its extensive graduate research programs frequently give undergraduates the chance to work on complex projects that they would be unlikely to find elsewhere.
The business program is also influenced by the entrepreneurial spirit, with hubs like the Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship known for assembling future CIO and CEO teams. Although CMU is known for its intense academic focus, its students are proud of their individuality and eager to participate in distinctive traditions like Buggy The Tartans take great pride in their intense teamwork and blatant geekiness.
But how difficult is it to enter Pittsburgh’s jewel? Well, it’s very difficult. For the Class of 2025, just 17. 5% of students were admitted out of an applicant pool of 26,189 And almost all of these admitted students had incredibly strong academic records. Fortunately, Carnegie Mellon focuses entirely on data, so there is a ton to share.
Carnegie Mellon Admissions Stats at a Glance
Here is a summary of some admissions statistics for Carnegie Mellon University.
| Carnegie Mellon 2022 | Admissions Statistics |
|---|---|
| Mean Unweighted GPA | 3.9 |
| Admitted Students in Top 10% of Graduating Class | 88.9% |
| Admissions Test Policy | Optional |
| Applicants Who Submit SATs | 47.7% |
| Applicants Who Submit ACTs | 21.9% |
| Waitlist | No |
Continue scrolling for more information on Carnegie Mellons admissions stats.
Considering Applying Early to Carnegie Mellon?
These are the early application deadlines for Carnegie Mellon University.
| Application Type | Offered | Application Deadline | Notification Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Decision I | No | –– | –– |
| Early Decision II | Yes | January 3 | February 1 |
| Early Action | No | –– | –– |
Carnegie Mellon does not offer early decision or early action.
Early Decision I applicants should receive a decision by December 15; the deadline for EDI applications is November 1, which is not far off.
Early Decision II applications are due January 3. ED II Applicants will recieve their decision before February 1.
Some students believe that by applying early to college, their chances will improve. Applying early demonstrates your serious interest in a school and your application is being considered before all the regular decision applicants do, so early deadlines may increase your chances of being admitted.
Check out a list of some elite colleges that accept a disproportionately higher number of applicants during early decision or early action than during regular admission.
What Does Carnegie Mellon Look For in an Applicant?
When selecting applicants for their upcoming incoming class, colleges take a number of factors into account. Each college chooses which considerations receive the most weight when making admissions decisions. Consider your strengths and any potential weaknesses in your application when making your list of schools to apply to, and select those that place the most emphasis on your strong suit
Admissions Factors at Carnegie Mellon
If you’re wondering what factors Carnegie Mellon takes into account when making admissions decisions, the following factors are frequently taken into account.
| Admissions Factor | Level |
|---|---|
| Character/Personal Qualities | Very Important |
| Class Rank | Very Important |
| Extracurricular Activities | Very Important |
| Volunteer Work | Very Important |
| Academic GPA | Very Important |
| Rigor of Secondary School Record | Very Important |
| Application Essay | Important |
| Racial/Ethnic Status | Important |
| Recommendation(s) | Important |
| Talent/Ability | Important |
| Work Experience | Important |
| First Generation | Important |
| Alumni/ae Relations | Considered |
| Geographical Residence | Considered |
| Standardized Test Scores | Considered |
Be sure to contact Carnegie Mellon to learn more about the requirements for admission.
Carnegie Mellon 2022-2023 Application Requirements
All candidates for Carnegie Mellon must submit the following materials to apply. Double check all application materials and requirements with the admissions department at Carnegie Mellon.
| Area | Required | Recommended | Required for Some | Details (If Any) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interview | ||||
| Other Requirements | √ | audition/portfolio for fine arts | ||
| Transcript(S) of College Record | ||||
| Standardized Test Scores | ||||
| Statement of Good Standing From Prior Institution(S) | ||||
| Written Essay or Personal Statement | √ | |||
| Transcript of High School Record | √ |
What GPA Do I Need To Get Into Carnegie Mellon?
Your high school grade point average (GPA) is a figure that represents how well you did academically in high school. Colleges may take into account either a weighted GPA or an unweighted GPA.
The average of your four-point class grades is known as your unweighted GPA. 4. 0. Unweighted GPAs range from 4. 0 to under 1. 0. Your overall grade point average (GPA) is weighted based on how challenging your classes are. By awarding extra points for honors or AP courses, a weighted GPA raises your average.
The average unweighted GPA of applicants to Carnegie Mellon is 3. 9.
Out of all students that were admitted, 56. 5% submitted a class rank. At Carnegie Mellon 88. 9% of students ranked in the top 10% of their graduating class in high school, 99 5% were in the top 25% and 100% were in the top 50%
GPAs of Admitted Students
The following ranges apply to student GPAs at Carnegie Mellon University:
| GPA | Percent of Students |
|---|---|
| 4.0 GPA | –– |
| 3.75 and 3.99 | 40.1% |
| 3.50 and 3.74 | 11.5% |
| 3.25 and 3.49 | 2.4% |
| 3.00 and 3.24 | 0.8% |
| 2.50 and 2.9 | 0.1% |
| 2.00 and 2.49 | –– |
The percentage of all enrolled, degree-seeking, first-time, first-year (freshmen) students with high school GPAs falling within the indicated ranges is shown in the chart below.
ACT or SAT scores are taken into account by Carnegie Mellon as part of the admissions process.
Carnegie Mellon is test optional. Students can decide whether or not to submit their ACT or SAT scores with their applications at schools that don’t require them to take the tests.
In 2022, 47. 7% of Carnegie Mellons first-year students submitted their SAT scores with their application 21. 9% of admitted applicants sent ACT scores.
What’s a Good SAT Score for Carnegie Mellon?
On the SAT Math Section, 25% of Carnegie Mellon students scored 800 or higher and 75% of students scored 710 or higher On the SAT Critical Reading section (formerly called the Verbal section), 25% of Carnegie Mellon students scored 760 or higher, and 75% scored a 710 or higher
Want to increase your SAT Score?
Although SAT preparation can increase your score, it doesn’t have to take up a lot of time.
Learn how to increase your SAT score 200 points or more in just 10 minutes a day.
What’s a Good ACT Score for Carnegie Mellon?
The ideal ACT score range for admission to Carnegie Mellon is between 33 and 35.
You are in the 75th percentile of applicants to Carnegie Mellon with an ACT score of 35. On the ACT, one out of every four students achieved a score above 35, and three out of four students achieved a score below 35.
For Carnegie Mellon students, a 33 on the ACT places them in the 25th percentile. Only one out of every four students scored below 33.
Access ACT practice tests, study guides, and upcoming ACT test dates to improve your ACT score.
Transferring to Carnegie Mellon University
The application deadline for transfer students wishing to enroll in classes in the fall is February 15. Applicants should hear back by May 15.
Carnegie Mellon Admissions FAQs
Do I have to submit test scores to Carnegie Mellon?
No, test submission is not required at Carnegie Mellon; you can decide whether to do so or not. You should likely include any scores that are above average. It’s possible that you shouldn’t include your test results in your application if they were below the school’s average.
What is the early decision acceptance rate at Carnegie Mellon?
❌ Carnegie Mellon does not offer early decision.
What is the early action acceptance rate at Carnegie Mellon?
❌ Carnegie Mellon does not offer eary action.
Want To Learn More About Carnegie Mellon?
Pick one of the following to learn more about Carnegie Mellon:
Join the discussion about Carnegie Mellon in the College Confidential forums.
Use the college admissions predictor to estimate your chances of admission to some of the top colleges and universities in the U.S., or look into other colleges in Pennsylvania. S.
Carnegie Mellon Admissions Requirements
Being admitted to Carnegie Mellon is difficult because it is a selective university. The Carnegie Mellon acceptance rate is 14%. This indicates that 13 out of every 100 applicants are accepted by the institution. Your Chance.
Carnegie Mellon Application Deadline
First-Year Applications are Due
Transfer Applications are Due
Carnegie Mellon’s Fall first-year application deadline is January 1st.
The deadline for Carnegie Mellon’s fall transfer applications is February 15
Check the school website for more information about deadlines for specific programs or special admissions programs
Carnegie Mellon ACT Scores ic_reflect
35 and Above Good
33 to 35 Avg
33 and Less Low
Stand out on your college application
- • Qualify for scholarships
- • Most students who retest improve their score
Carnegie Mellon SAT Scores ic_reflect
Avg. High School GPA (non-weighted)
GPA Needed to Get Accepted
The typical unweighted high school GPA for accepted students at Carnegie Mellon is 3. 89. This is the average, so some applicants may submit GPAs that are lower than this and some applicants may submit GPAs that are higher than this. Strong test results or other qualifications may help you become a more competitive applicant if your GPA is below average.
IPEDs and Petersons Databases are the data source. 2022 Petersons LLC. All rights reserved.
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The Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Package!
FAQ
Does Ed help for CMU?
Your decision to enroll at CMU is not dependent on the financial aid package because CMU is unquestionably your top choice. Your stats are competitive. Since you’ve stated that you’ll be a full-paying student, switching to ED will likely significantly increase your chances of being accepted.
Which school has the highest ED acceptance rate?
- Grinnell College. Grinnell Early Decision Acceptance Rate: 65% Regular Acceptance Rate: 19% ED Advantage: 40%
- Bates College. …
- Denison University. …
- Washington and Lee University. …
- Haverford College. …
- Skidmore College. …
- Hamilton College. …
- Davidson College.
Does Carnegie Mellon have Ed 2?
Early Decision There are two options available to you. Early Decision 2 is for applicants who may decide that Carnegie Mellon has overtaken their first choice after November 1 while Early Decision 1 is for those who submit their applications by that date.
Does Carnegie Mellon have EA or ED?
The following application plans are available from Carnegie Mellon: Regular Decision, Early Decision 1 and 2, and Early Admission for juniors in high school. Please note: Carnegie Mellon doesn’t offer Early Action.