Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a prestigious private research institution renowned for its cutting-edge programs in technology, science, and the arts. With a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 7,707 students, CMU offers a rigorous academic environment that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.U.S. News
If you’re considering applying to CMU, it’s crucial to present a compelling application. Our statement of purpose editing services and college application essay editing can help refine your essays to effectively showcase your strengths. CMU is also featured in our Top 100 US Universities for 2025, providing insights into its standing among leading institutions.
Academic Programs
CMU offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across several colleges:
- College of Engineering: Known for its emphasis on innovation and research in various engineering disciplines.
- School of Computer Science: Recognized globally for excellence in computer science and artificial intelligence.
- Tepper School of Business: Offers programs in business administration with a focus on analytical decision-making.Texas Career Check
- College of Fine Arts: Provides programs in architecture, art, design, drama, and music.
- Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences: Encompasses a wide array of majors in humanities and social sciences.
- Mellon College of Science: Focuses on biological sciences, chemistry, mathematical sciences, and physics.
Popular majors at CMU include computer science, electrical engineering, business administration, statistics, and mechanical engineering. The university encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career goals.College Raptor+1Niche+1
Admissions Overview
Admission to CMU is highly competitive. For the Class of 2028, the university received over 34,000 applications and admitted approximately 3,324 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of around 11.5%. Successful applicants typically have exemplary academic records, high standardized test scores, and significant extracurricular involvement.AdmissionSight
Academic Environment
CMU maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, fostering close interactions between students and professors. The university emphasizes experiential learning, with numerous opportunities for undergraduate research, internships, and study abroad programs. CMU’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative projects across disciplines.
Carnegie Mellon University Admissions Statistics (Class of 2028)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Applicants | 34,000+ |
| Students Admitted | ~3,324 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~11.5% |
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | 7,707 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 7:1 |
| SAT Middle 50% Range | 1460–1560 |
| ACT Middle 50% Range | 33–35 |
| Average High School GPA | 3.9 |
Sources:
Admissions data: Carnegie Mellon University Admissions
Testing and GPA data: Carnegie Mellon University Admissions Statistics
General information: Carnegie Mellon University – Wikipedia
Student Life at CMU
CMU offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student organizations, including cultural groups, service organizations, and academic clubs. The university has a strong emphasis on the arts, with a notable number of alumni achieving recognition in various creative fields. CMU’s location in Pittsburgh provides students with access to a dynamic city known for its tech industry, cultural institutions, and diverse neighborhoods.CMU
What’s Good
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: “CMU’s structure allows for collaboration across different fields, enabling students to pursue unique combinations of studies.”
- Research Focus: “The university provides ample opportunities for undergraduate research, fostering a hands-on learning environment.”
- Strong Alumni Network: “CMU’s extensive alumni network offers valuable connections and career opportunities post-graduation.”
What’s Not-So-Great
- Intense Academic Environment: “The rigorous coursework can be challenging, requiring strong time management skills.”
- Weather: “Pittsburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and frequent rain.”
- Cost of Attendance: “CMU’s tuition is high, but the university offers financial aid to those who qualify.”
Admissions Requirements at Carnegie Mellon University
CMU employs a holistic admissions process, considering various factors:
- Academic Performance: Emphasis on high school GPA, class rank, and the rigor of coursework.
- Standardized Test Scores: For those who submit scores, competitive applicants typically present SAT scores between 1460–1560 or ACT scores between 33–35.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community service, and unique talents are highly valued.
- Essays and Recommendations: Personal statements and letters of recommendation provide insight into the applicant’s character and fit for CMU.
Does CMU Require the Common App Essay?
Yes, CMU accepts the Common Application and requires the standard personal statement. Additionally, CMU has supplemental essay prompts that allow applicants to elaborate on their interests and how they align with the university’s offerings. These essays are crucial for demonstrating fit and showing your passion for your chosen field of study. Thoughtful, specific responses can help distinguish your application from a competitive pool.
If you want your application to stand out, we recommend using Vappingo’s statement of purpose editing services or college application essay editing to ensure your essays reflect your goals and voice with clarity and professionalism.
SAT and ACT Requirements
Carnegie Mellon is test-optional through the 2025 admissions cycle. However, applicants to the School of Computer Science, College of Engineering, and Tepper School of Business may benefit from submitting strong scores. The middle 50% ranges for admitted students are:
- SAT: 1460–1560
- ACT: 33–35
CMU superscores both exams, meaning they consider the highest section scores across test dates.
GPA Expectations
While there’s no minimum GPA requirement, most admitted students have unweighted GPAs near or above 3.9. The admissions team places significant weight on course rigor, sustained academic achievement, and performance in relevant subjects (such as math and science for STEM majors or writing for humanities students).
Nearby and Comparable Universities
Carnegie Mellon is located in Pittsburgh, a city known for its transformation into a tech and innovation hub. It’s close to several other universities and comparable institutions that offer similarly strong academic experiences, especially in STEM, business, and the arts. These include:
- University of Pittsburgh – also located in Pittsburgh, strong in health sciences and engineering
- Case Western Reserve University – a top private research university in Cleveland, Ohio
- Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) – known for technology, design, and co-op programs
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – elite STEM-focused private university
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech) – another top-tier STEM institution
- Cornell University – Ivy League school with outstanding engineering and computer science
- Georgia Institute of Technology – public research university with top engineering programs
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – renowned for computer science and engineering
Each of these schools shares CMU’s commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and career readiness.
Note: All data and statistics are sourced from Carnegie Mellon’s official admissions publications and other verified third-party sources. For the most current information, visit the Carnegie Mellon University Undergraduate Admissions site.