carnegie mellon chemistry phd acceptance rate

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The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree is the highest academic degree awarded by any university. Students pursuing a Ph.D. in chemical engineering become independent researchers equipped to apply chemical engineering principles and advanced analytical and experimental techniques to solve open-ended research problems. The education and training prepare students for careers in academia, industry, and government research.

Ph.D. candidates

The Ph.D. program is for students who want to direct their own comprehensive research project and receive the ultimate license for a career in research in industrial, academic, or government laboratories. The Ph.D. requires four to five years of work to acquire knowledge, form a plan, do the work, persist through the ups and downs of confronting the unknown, and learn to communicate the results.

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Our Ph.D. graduates join an elite global scientific and technological club whose members have both the privilege and responsibility to peer into the future and help shape it. The Ph.D. program in chemical engineering at Carnegie Mellon also is a living space where students meet and form lifelong bonds with like-minded peers within their research group and across the program. Our program features a strong graduate student association that provides an instant welcoming community.

Ph.D. thesis

The cornerstone of a Ph.D. education is a research-based thesis. First, candidates select a research area and choose a faculty mentor called a thesis advisor. The advisor then guides the student as they develop a plan of investigation to advance the state-of-the-art in the selected research area.

By the end of the student’s thesis research, the student must have assembled an expert’s level of knowledge in the topic area and must demonstrate the ability to conduct an independent investigation. At that point, the student summarizes the knowledge generated through their research program in a doctoral thesis and presents the results to the public in an oral thesis defense. The knowledge generated is disseminated to the scientific and technological community by publishing articles in the scientific literature and through presentations at scientific and technological meetings and symposia.

During the program, candidates form a plan, execute the plan, and communicate the findings alongside peers at the highest academic level.

Program cost

All full-time Ph.D. students accepted through the normal application process receive fellowships that pay tuition, fees, and a stipend for living expenses for up to five years, as long as sufficient progress is being made toward degree completion. These awards are enough to cover all costs for the year (including summers). Students are required to pay for books and course supplies. Off-campus housing is available within walking distance of campus.

Admissions requirements

Admission decisions are based on overall academic performance, recommendation letters, and standardized test scores, if applicable. Prospective students must have completed a regular four-year undergraduate course in chemical engineering or a related discipline at a recognized university with better than a “B” average in chemical engineering courses and overall.

Learn more about the Ph.D. program’s admissions process and apply!

Have questions about our admissions process or Ph.D. program? Visit our  FAQ page .

Pursue a Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering from Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon Acceptance Rate–Overview and By School

Discover a comprehensive overview of Carnegie Mellon University's acceptance rate, broken down by individual schools within the university.

Posted April 1, 2024

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Ask Me Anything with Former Ivy League Admissions Committee Member

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Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and status as a leading research institution. With a competitive selection process, understanding the acceptance rate at CMU, both overall and by individual schools within the university, is vital for prospective students. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of CMU’s admissions process, examining acceptance rates by individual schools and offering strategic advice to bolster your chances of acceptance.

Carnegie Mellon's Overall Acceptance Rate

Carnegie Mellon University maintains a selective admissions process, reflected in its overall acceptance rate, which stood at approximately 11% for the latest admissions cycle. Despite this low number, prospective students should not be discouraged as there are various schools within CMU that have differing acceptance rates and specialized admission requirements.

The university’s commitment to academic excellence and rigorous standards contributes to its status as a top-tier institution, attracting a competitive applicant pool worldwide. Because of the breadth of applicants each year, CMU’s admissions committees employ a holistic review process, evaluating factors beyond grades and test scores such as extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, essays, and recommendations. This approach ensures that accepted students at Carnegie Mellon not only excel academically but also possess the qualities that align with the university's values and mission.

While the overall acceptance rate may seem low, it is crucial to recognize that CMU comprises several distinct schools, each with its own unique admission requirements and acceptance rates. These schools include the College of Engineering, the School of Computer Science, the College of Fine Arts, the Tepper School of Business, and many more. Each school has its own specialized programs and areas of study, attracting students with diverse interests and talents.

Exploring the acceptance rates across CMU's individual schools can help provide prospective applicants with valuable insights into their chances of admission. By understanding the unique criteria and requirements of each school, applicants can tailor their application strategies effectively to enhance their chances of admission.

Acceptance Rates by Individual Schools within CMU:

School of computer science:.

The School of Computer Science at CMU has an acceptance rate of around 7% . It is highly regarded in the field and known for its rigorous coursework and cutting-edge research opportunities. Prospective students interested in computer science, artificial intelligence, or robotics will find this school particularly appealing.

Within the School of Computer Science, students have the opportunity to work with renowned faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The school offers a wide range of courses, from foundational computer science principles to advanced topics such as machine learning and data science. Students also have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, where they can collaborate with fellow students and faculty on groundbreaking projects.

Furthermore, the School of Computer Science organizes various industry partnerships and internship programs, allowing students to gain real-world experience and establish valuable connections in the tech industry. Graduates from this program often find themselves in high-demand positions at top tech companies around the world.

Tepper School of Business:

The Tepper School of Business has a comparatively higher acceptance rate of approximately 23% . Known for its top-notch faculty and emphasis on analytical and quantitative skills, the school attracts aspiring business leaders. Strong candidates often possess a strong academic background and demonstrate exceptional leadership potential.

Students at the Tepper School of Business benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of business management, including finance, marketing, operations, and entrepreneurship. The school also offers specialized programs and concentrations, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific career goals.

In addition to classroom learning, the Tepper School of Business provides numerous experiential learning opportunities, such as case competitions, consulting projects, and internships. These hands-on experiences enable students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop practical skills that are highly sought after by employers.

Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences

With an acceptance rate hovering around 13% , the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University offers a diverse range of programs in fields such as psychology, economics, history, and international relations. The college also emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore connections between different disciplines and apply their knowledge to real-world issues and challenges.

In addition to its academic programs, students at the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences have access to research opportunities, internships, study abroad programs, and extracurricular activities that enrich their educational experience and expand their horizons. By fostering a supportive and inclusive community where students can engage in lively discussions, collaborate on projects, and form lasting connections with peers and faculty members, Dietrich College encourages students to become thoughtful leaders, critical thinkers, and engaged citizens in an ever-changing world.

School of Design

The School of Design at CMU focuses on creative and innovative thinking. With an acceptance rate of around 11% , this school seeks students who exhibit a passion for design, visual communication, and the ability to think critically. Prospective students are encouraged to showcase their portfolio and demonstrate their creativity during the admissions process.

At the School of Design, students are immersed in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, where they can explore various design disciplines, including graphic design, product design, and interaction design. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, allowing students to develop a strong foundation in design principles and techniques.

One of the unique aspects of the School of Design is its strong connection to industry professionals and design firms. Students have the opportunity to engage in internships, design projects, and mentorship programs, which provide valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities. Graduates from this program often go on to work in prestigious design studios, advertising agencies, or pursue entrepreneurial ventures.

College of Engineering

CMU’s College of Engineering maintains a competitive acceptance rate of 20% . Known for its cutting-edge research and innovative programs, the College of Engineering offers students a dynamic learning environment where they can explore various disciplines within engineering. From the mechanical side of robotics and artificial intelligence to sustainable design and biomedical engineering, the college equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle real-world challenges.

With a wide array of resources and expert faculty always available to students, the College of Engineering at CMU is a hub for innovation and creativity. Students have access to hands-on learning opportunities and collaborative research projects that prepare them for successful careers in engineering and related fields.

Mellon College of Science

With an acceptance rate of approximately 18% , the Mellon College of Science is highly selective, attracting top-tier students with a passion for scientific inquiry and discovery. The college offers rigorous academic programs in areas including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematical sciences, providing students with rigorous academic curriculum and opportunities for hands-on research experiences.

Students in the Mellon College of Science benefit from state-of-the-art research facilities, cutting-edge laboratories, and collaboration with world-renowned faculty who are leaders in their respective fields. Through experiential learning and mentorship, students develop critical thinking skills, gain practical laboratory experience, and contribute to groundbreaking research that advances scientific knowledge and innovation.

College of Fine Arts

The College of Fine Arts at CMU comprises several specialized schools, each offering unique programs and concentrations in the arts. Below are the acceptance rates for the individual schools within the College of Fine Arts:

• School of Architecture: 34%
• School of Art: 23%
• School of Drama: 4%
• School of Music: 31%

With a diverse array of programs spanning theater, music, visual arts, and architecture, the College of Fine Arts fosters creativity and innovation in its students. The college provides creative facilities including studios, performance spaces, and exhibition galleries along with access to world-class faculty who are all accomplished artists and scholars in their respective fields.

Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy

With an acceptance rate of approximately 24% , the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy attracts students passionate about leveraging technology and policy to effect positive change. Students benefit from innovative programs that blend cutting-edge coursework in information systems with rigorous training in public policy, preparing them for impactful careers in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and public administration.

The college emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through internships and research projects. Graduates of the Heinz College emerge as leaders equipped to tackle society's most pressing issues at the intersection of technology and public policy.

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Factors Impacting Admissions at CMU

In Carnegie Mellon’s admissions process, several factors come into play to ensure a top-tier selection of students who align with the university’s values and mission while demonstrating academic potential. Academic performance is a primary consideration, with emphasis on strong grades, SAT or ACT scores, and challenging coursework related to the intended major. Admissions officers meticulously review transcripts for evidence of students’ readiness for CMU’s academic rigor.

Beyond academic achievement, CMU values extracurricular involvement as evidence of a well-rounded individual who contributes positively to the community. Participation in activities, leadership roles, community service, and internships can enhance applicants' profiles, showcasing their ability to balance academic and non-academic pursuits effectively.

The admissions essay and personal statement also offer applicants a prime opportunity to articulate their unique experiences, motivations, and aspirations. Specifically, CMU values insightful and well-crafted responses that demonstrate a genuine connection between applicants’ goals and the university’s academic offerings. Likewise, letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or employers can further illuminate an applicant’s character and potential for success at CMU.

Read: Best Free Resources to Prepare for the ACT and SAT

Understanding CMU's Admissions Standards and Trends

It is crucial to remain aware of CMU's admissions standards and trends in order to maintain realistic expectations throughout the application process. Admissions standards are rigorous and may change from year to year depending on factors such as the applicant pool and program capacity. Staying informed through official CMU communication channels, attending information sessions, and engaging with admissions representatives can provide valuable insights.

As one of the top universities in the world, Carnegie Mellon holds a commitment to academic excellence and seeks driven, passionate individuals who will contribute to its vibrant community. By understanding CMU's acceptance rate, admission factors, and employing effective strategies, prospective students can increase their chances of securing a spot at this prestigious institution and embarking on a fulfilling academic journey.

• Carnegie Mellon University: College Application & Program Overview
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Carnegie Mellon University

4 year • Pittsburgh, PA

Carnegie Mellon University is a private institution that was founded in 1900. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 7,509 (fall 2022), and the campus size is 157 acres. It utilizes a semester-based academic calendar. Carnegie Mellon University's ranking in the 2024 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities, #24. Its tuition and fees are $63,829.

Carnegie Mellon University, founded by industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, is located in Pittsburgh, which offers dining and entertainment options as well as professional sports teams including the Penguins (hockey), Steelers (football) and Pirates (baseball). Only freshmen are required to live on campus, but the university guarantees housing for all four years, and the majority of students choose to remain on campus. Nearly 20 percent of the student population is affiliated with Greek life, which consists of more than 20 fraternities and sororities. The Carnegie Mellon Tartans compete in NCAA Division III competitions, and the Kiltie Band, which sports full Scottish regalia, performs at every home football game.

Carnegie Mellon is known for its programs in science and technology, but its seven schools and colleges include the College of Fine Arts and the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Its graduate programs include the highly ranked Tepper School of Business , Carnegie Institute of Technology and School of Computer Science . Undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon have the opportunity to participate in research and can even receive grants or summer fellowships to support research in their field of study. Randy Pausch, author of the New York Times best-selling book "The Last Lecture," was a professor at Carnegie Mellon.

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How to Get Into Carnegie Mellon: Admissions Stats + Tips

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What’s Covered:

How hard is it to get into carnegie mellon, average academic profile of accepted cmu students, what is cmu looking for, how to improve your chances of getting into cmu.

Founded in 1900, Carnegie Mellon University is a research university with a reputation for excellence in areas like STEM and performing arts. Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the university houses seven schools and colleges with undergraduate programs:

• College of Engineering
• College of Fine Arts
• Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Heinz College of Information Systems & Public Policy Management
• Mellon College of Science
• School of Computer Science
• Tepper School of Business

CMU counts Ted Danson, Michael Chabon, Judith Resnik, Andy Warhol, and Holly Hunter among its alumni. Hoping to join their ranks? Here’s what to know about admission to this premier university.

For the class of 2025, 26,189 students applied, and 4,524 were accepted, for an admissions rate of 17.3%.

While CMU’s acceptance rate is incredibly low, your chances of admission could be higher or lower, depending on your unique factors.

Use CollegeVine’s free admissions calculator to better understand your chances of acceptance. This tool takes into account factors like GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars and gives you tips on how to improve your odds.

CMU’s average high school GPA for the freshman class is 3.85 . Approximately 32% had a GPA of 4.0.

CMU is currently test-optional. For the class of 2025, 76% of students submitted SAT scores, and 35.2% submitted ACT scores.

The middle 50% range for SAT scores was 700-760 (ERW)/ 760-800 (M). For ACT scores, it was 33-35 .

Of those submitting class rank (45.5%), 88.5% of students were in the top 10% of their graduating high school class, and 99.7% were in the top 25%.

“The world needs more people like you,” says CMU. “The furiously curious kind. The deeply driven kind. The kind who wants to make life better for all humankind.”

Carnegie Mellon employs a holistic admissions process when reviewing applications. For STEM majors, particularly those in computer science, extremely strong academics, extracurriculars, and essays are a must. Admission is less competitive for non-STEM majors, however.

According to the university, “diversity, equity, inclusion, collaboration, communication, community engagement, concern for others, self-directed learning, and critical thinking” are a priority. “We also encourage you to consider how to share your experiences and aspirations so the admission committee can learn more about you as an applicant, student and person beyond a list of accomplishments,” it notes.

Rigor of coursework, in addition to your grades, play a large role in the admissions process. That means you should be engaging in high-level courses, the most challenging available to you. 

Bear in mind that each school or college has its own criteria. For example, the College of Fine Arts will evaluate your artistic performance in your specialty, while the College of Engineering prioritizes STEM coursework and extracurriculars.

NB: The university does not consider demonstrated interest.

How Carnegie Mellon Evaluates Applications

According to the 2020–2021 Common Data Set, CMU considers these factors “ very important ”:

• Rigor of secondary school record
• Academic GPA 
• Extracurricular activities
• Volunteer work
• Work experience 

These factors are “ important ”:

• Standardized test scores
• Application essay
• Recommendation(s) 
• Talent/ability
• Character/personal qualities
• First generation
• Alumni/ae relation
• Racial/ethnic status

And these are “ not considered ”:

• Geographical residence 
• State residency 
• Religious affiliation/commitment 
• Level of applicant interest

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

1. Achieve at least a 3.85 while taking the most challenging classes available.

Many selective schools like CMU use the Academic Index , which combines your academic metrics such as grades and GPA to form a single value, to ensure applicants meet their minimum standards. It’s important to clear this threshold by having at least the minimum GPA at CMU — 3.85 — and being in the top 10% of your class if your school ranks, as the majority of students are.

Remember, too, that Carnegie Mellon also wants to see you taking an exceptionally challenging curriculum, the most rigorous available to you. This will help separate you from other talented students. (Here’s some guidance on how many APs you should take.)

If your GPA is lower, and you’re earlier on in your high school career, check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior, it will be harder to increase your GPA, so the easiest way to increase your Academic Index is to get a higher test score.

2. Aim for a 1560 SAT and 35 ACT.

You should aim for scores in the 75th percentile of admitted students at CMU, although anything with the middle 50% range (1460-1560 SAT/33-35 ACT) is acceptable.

In light of COVID-19 test-optional policies , we advise students to take standardized tests if they can safely do so and submit them if they are at least the 25th percentile of admitted students. Get recommendations on whether or not you should apply test-optional using our free Chancing Engine . 

While CMU does not say that it superscores, it does say this: “If you choose to submit scores, we’re interested in the general pattern of your scores but will give the most weight to the highest score you’ve received on any of the exams.”

Want to improve your SAT/ACT score? Check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

3. Cultivate at least one or two Tier 1-2 extracurriculars (find your “spike”).

“By looking at this non-academic information, we develop a sense of your personality, motivation and social responsibility,” CMU says. 

The 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars offer an outline of how to formulate your extracurricular activity plan. You should aim for at least a couple of Tier 1-2 activities — the most exceptional and rare — along with a handful of the more common Tier 3-4 activities.

Find a consistent “ spike ” — area of passion — for your activities, no matter the tier. This means one or two areas of focus, around which your extracurriculars should be grouped. This is especially true at Carnegie Mellon, where students focus on specific passions at particular schools or college. 

For example, you might demonstrate your passion for music by playing in your all-state orchestra or ensemble, usually a Tier 1-2 activity, along with playing for your school’s orchestra and performing locally. You might also teach lessons, probably a Tier 3 activity.

4. Write engaging essays.

“The best essay you can write helps us learn about you!” CMU says.

Essays are the best way to share your personality and voice with the adcom. This year, Carnegie Mellon has the following prompts in their supplement:

1. Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time — what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study?

2. Many students pursue college for a specific degree, career opportunity or personal goal. Whichever it may be, learning will be critical to achieve your ultimate goal. As you think ahead to the process of learning during your college years, how will you define a successful college experience?

3. Consider your application as a whole. What do you personally want to emphasize about your application for the admission committee’s consideration? Highlight something that’s important to you or something you haven’t had a chance to share. Tell us, don’t show us (no websites please).

“We want to know more about your passions, goals, aspirations and experiences to gain a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your transcript,” CMU says. For more guidance on how to write these essays, review our CMU essay breakdown . 

5. Apply Early Decision.

Carnegie Mellon doesn’t publish its Early Decision acceptance rate, but generally speaking, these rates are higher than the overall admission rate. That’s because schools like CMU want to admit students who will attend, and ED plans are binding. CMU offers both ED I and ED II.

It’s important to remember that you are required to attend CMU if you apply under an ED plan and are admitted. This provides a number of advantages, including a boost in your chances of acceptance, but there are also some disadvantages. For example, you won’t be able to compare or leverage financial aid offers.

CMU also has an Early Admission plan for “highly qualified” high school juniors. ( Learn more about this plan.)

6. Ask for recommendations from teachers who know you well.

CMU requires a recommendation from both a school counselor and a teacher. These recommendations play an important role in the admissions process.

When considering the teacher to ask, select someone who can attest to both your academic abilities and your personal qualities. According to the university, this doesn’t need to be a teacher in your academic area but rather the one who “knows you the best.”

7. Apply for the right school or program.

Carnegie Mellon is divided into several colleges and schools, each of which considers different factors and has separate requirements for admission.

Don’t apply for a program you don’t really want to pursue because you think it will be easier to get in — the adcom will likely see through this. Also, keep in mind that the schools have different criteria for evaluating students, so your profile won’t make sense if it doesn’t align with what that college is looking for.

How to Apply to CMU

* Early Decision 1 is not available for acting, directing, dramaturgy, music theater or the School of Music.

** RD deadline for Schools of Drama and Music: December 1. Early Decision 2 is not available for the Schools of Drama, Music, Design or Art.

Application Requirements

• Common Application
• $75 application fee
• Official high school transcript
• Official standardized testing score reports (currently optional)
• Secondary school counselor evaluation
• Teacher recommendation
• Common Application essay
• Carnegie Mellon Common Application Writing Supplement
• Pre-screen, audition, or portfolio review (School of Drama and School of Music only)
• Portfolio and creative materials (Schools of Architecture, the School of Art, and the School of Design only)

NB: There are additional application requirements for the College of Fine Arts.

Learn more about Carnegie Mellon

• What is Carnegie Mellon’s Acceptance Rate & Admissions Requirements?
• What is Carnegie Mellon University Known For?
• Carnegie Mellon Student Panel

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How to Get Into Carnegie Mellon: Acceptance Rate & Strategies

June 14, 2023

Over 32,000 high-achieving teens applied to be part of Carnegie Mellon’s Class of 2026—13.5% were accepted. The vast majority of successful applicants had pristine transcripts and SATs of 1500 or better. Selectivity at this school, which is named after two famous/infamous Captains of Industry/Robber Barons is nothing new, but it has reached previously unimaginable levels in recent years. In the 1980s, the acceptance rate hovered between 42-46% and the average SAT was just a shade over 1200. By the year 2000, the school received over 14,000 applications each cycle and the Carnegie Mellon acceptance rate was 36%.

In addition to the rise in selectivity, CMU also has a somewhat complex application process and also a greatly varying degree of difficulty depending on which of the university’s seven undergraduate colleges/programs you are hoping to enter. To assist you in this quest, we will provide those considering applying to Carnegie Mellon University with the following:

• Carnegie Mellon’s ED acceptance rate
• Carnegie Mellon acceptance rate 2026
• SAT, ACT, GPA and class rank of accepted Carnegie Mellon applicants
• Admissions trends at Carnegie Mellon
• Carnegie Mellon’s system for rating applicants
• A look at the demographics of Carnegie Mellon undergraduates
• The percentage of accepted students that attend the university
• Tips for applying to Carnegie Mellon
• CMU essay prompts
• How to assess whether applying to Carnegie Mellon is even worth the $75 application fee (for you)

Many students applying to CMU may also find the following blogs to be of interest:

How to Get Into:

• University of Michigan
•  Georgia Tech
• Cornell University

Let’s begin with an examination of the most recent admissions data.

Carnegie Mellon: Early Decision Acceptance Rate 

Carnegie Mellon accepted 12.5% of the 4,528 ED applicants to the Class of 2026. While this is higher than the regular decision clip, this figure represents less of an advantage than at many other elite institutions where rates can be 2-3 times higher for ED applicants. The deadline for early decision at CMU is November 1 and decisions are made by December 15. They also have an ED II option with an early January deadline.

Carnegie Mellon Acceptance Rate 

Out of 32,896 applications submitted for a place in the 2022-23 freshman class, the Carnegie Mellon University acceptance rate was only 11.3%. This is a bit less favorable than the 15% acceptance rate for the Class of 2025. Results by school/program are available for the Class of 2024 (most recent available):

Carnegie Mellon Admissions – SAT, ACT, class rank, and GPA

The overall mid-50% SAT range for Class of 2026 enrolled students was 1500-1560. The ACT range was 34-35. In that cohort, 51% submitted an SAT score and 20% included an ACT result in their application. An incredible 90% of 2022-23 freshmen placed in the top 10% of their high school class and 99.5% were in the top quartile. The average unweighted GPA was 3.9 and 50% earned a perfect 4.0.

The SAT and ACT middle-50% ranges as well as the average GPA, by college, for the Class of 2024 (most recent available) are as follows:

Admissions Trends & Notes

• CMU will continue to be test-optional for students applying to join the university in fall 2024.
• The Class of 2026 included 12.5% first-generation college students, up from 9% two years prior.
• International students made up 19% of the freshman class. There were 42 countries represented.
• The number of applicants is up 25% over the past three years.

How Carnegie Mellon Rates Applicants

There are six factors that Carnegie Mellon ranks as being “very important” to their admissions process: rigor of secondary school record, class rank, GPA, extracurricular activities, volunteer work experience, and paid work experience.  Essays, recommendations, first-generation status, legacy status, character/personal qualities, race/ethnicity, and talent/ability are “important” to the admissions committee.

Carnegie Mellon is not going to be impressed that you filled the ten spaces on the Common App Activity List; they are looking for genuine excellence in one or more activities. For example, you placed in a prestigious international science or mathematics competition, you co-authored original research, you developed an app, or you used your skills to help a charitable institution.

Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rate (Continued)

According to the school:

• “No single grade, factor, score or activity will automatically gain or deny you admission to Carnegie Mellon. We treat every applicant as an individual, taking great care to make our admission decisions fair, thorough and sensitive. We’re interested in students who can be successful at Carnegie Mellon, while taking full advantage of all the university has to offer and enriching our campus community.”
• Your non-academic interests, including extracurricular involvement, part-time jobs, family commitments, hobbies and community engagement play a very important role in the admission process. We also consider collaboration, perseverance, passion, advocacy for others and self-direction when making admission decisions.
• Think carefully about your Carnegie Mellon college selection(s) before applying. While you may apply to up to two colleges or programs that match your interests, bear in mind that most applicants will only be selected for their highest-choice college to which they‘re admissible.

Who Actually Gets Into Carnegie Mellon?

Let’s look at the demographics of current Carnegie Mellon undergraduates.

Geographically, we know the following about CMU students.

• In-state students: 13%
• Out-of-state students: 87%
• The Mid-Atlantic Region is the most represented area (37%)
• Students come from 82 countries around the world.

Competition is stiffest among those hailing from states with endless streams of qualified applicants (the entire Northeast & the West Coast). Contrarily, some recent classes contained no students from Alaska, Maine, Montana, Nebraska, or Wyoming.

Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown for the undergraduate student body is as follows:

• Hispanic: 9%
• African American: 4%
• Two or more: 5%
• International: 22%

The countries sending the greatest number of students to CMU are:

• South Korea

The breakdown by gender is as follows:

• Female: 50%

Women enjoy a much better acceptance rate than men, as the university receives far fewer applications from female students. For the Class of 2026, this was 9% (for men) versus 15% for women.

Carnegie Mellon’s Yield Rate

Carnegie Mellon’s yield rate—the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted is 45%. This number is over 30 points lower than Harvard and Stanford but in the same ballpark as many other selective private universities. Carnegie Mellon sports a similar yield rate to schools like the University of Michigan, Amherst College, and Tulane University.

Tips for Applying to Carnegie Mellon  

If you plan on joining the 32,000+ CMU hopefuls for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:

• Carnegie Mellon does not offer any type of in-person or alumni interviews for incoming freshmen. As a result, one of the best ways for admissions officers to get to know you on a personal level is through your two required recommendations—one from your counselor and one from your teacher. Applicants are also permitted to include an optional third letter of recommendation. For tips on which teachers to target and how to ask, revisit our blog on the subject.
• Carnegie Mellon does not officially consider “ demonstrated interest ” so you won’t be judged on whether or not you made a campus visit (in non-pandemic times), contacted an admissions officer, etc. However, given the school’s lower yield rate (compared to some other elite schools), it is never a bad idea to reach out to an admissions officer with a question, attend a virtual session, or engage with the school on social media.
• To apply to more than one college you will need to fill out a separate application and submit an additional application fee. CMU does allow you to select a second-choice school on a singular application.
• Make sure to dedicate sufficient time and effort to three 300-word supplemental essays required by Carnegie Mellon. In the 2022-23 cycle, they are as follows

CMU Essay Prompts

1) Many students pursue college for a specific degree, career opportunity or personal goal. Whichever it may be, learning will be critical to achieve your ultimate goal. As you think ahead to the process of learning during your college years, how will you define a successful college experience?

2) Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study?

3) Consider your application as a whole. What do you personally want to emphasize about your application for the admission committee’s consideration? Highlight something that’s important to you or something you haven’t had a chance to share. Tell us, don’t show us (no websites please).

For more on how to tackle the CMU essays visit our blog: Carnegie Mellon – Essay Prompts and Tips .

CMU Acceptance Rate – Final Thoughts 

If you bring strong academic and extracurricular credentials to the table, there is no harm in filling out a Carnegie Mellon application, but—as with all highly-competitive colleges in 2022—even the best and brightest teens need to have an appropriate college list , containing a complement of “target” and “safety” schools. Those that will fare best in conquering this admissions gauntlet will boast a transcript of straight ‘A’s in an exceptionally rigorous program of classes, superior standardized test scores (typically 98th percentile or better), and at least one or two talents and passions outside of the classroom.

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Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rates & Admissions Statistics

What does the admissions department at carnegie mellon university look for.

By analyzing the admissions figures of recent freshman cohorts, get a better grasp of your likelihood of gaining admission to Carnegie Mellon University.

On this page you’ll find:

What Admissions Stats Mean for You

Selectivity of Carnegie Mellon University

Acceptance & Enrollment Stats at Carnegie Mellon University

Male to Female Ratio of Applicants

Average SAT & ACT Scores

Helpful Resources

How are Carnegie Mellon University Admissions and Enrollment Stats Applicable to You?

Carnegie Mellon University Admission Statistics can help you to understand the likelihood of being accepted. Compare your SAT and ACT scores to previously accepted students. If your scores are lower than average, that may mean you should try to retake the exam or look at schools that better fit your scores. A college’s acceptance rates and selectivity are a good way to judge how difficult it is to be admitted.

Looking for Carnegie Mellon University application deadlines and requirements?

Selectivity (Fall 2021): The Numbers Behind Student Admissions

Acceptance and enrollment stats (fall 2021), boys vs. girls: who’s applying more, average test scores.

About 48% of students accepted to Carnegie Mellon submitted their SAT scores. When looking at the 25th through the 75th percentile, SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores ranged between 710 and 760. Math scores were between 770 and 800.

Carnegie Mellon received ACT scores from 22% of accepted students. When looking at the 25th through the 75th percentile, ACT Composite scores ranged between 33 and 35.

Additional Question to Ask

• A college’s selectivity gives us an idea of how rigorous the studies are, and how competitive the students are. However, not all students thrive in a competitive atmosphere, even if their grades are good. Does this college have the best learning environment for you?

Notes and References

• National Center for Education Statistics
• College Scorecard
• Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System
• Image Credit: By Daderot under License

More about our data sources and methodologies .

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Carnegie Mellon University: Statistics

Updated: February 29, 2024

Quick Review

Carnegie mellon university acceptance rate and admissions statistics.

Carnegie Mellon University has an acceptance rate of 11% and is among the top 3% of the most difficult universities to gain admission to in the United States. The university reports the admission statistics without distinguishing between local and international students.

2,674 students enrolled in some distance education courses.

572 enrolled exclusively in distance education.

Among admitted applicants 867 or 51% submitted SAT

25% of them had 1490 or below

75% of them had 1570 or below

Typical SAT scores of first-years in Carnegie Mellon University are 1490-1570 (middle 50% range).

Among admitted applicants 338 or 20% submitted ACT

25% of them had 34 or below

75% of them had 35 or below

Typical ACT scores of first-years in Carnegie Mellon University are 34-35 (middle 50% range).

Admissions requirements

Enrollment demographics by race or ethnicity, costs per year: tuition, housing, fees.

The average net cost to attend Carnegie Mellon University is $33,499 per year, calculated as the sum of the average cost of tuition, room and board, books, and supplies, reduced by the amount of average financial aid received.

The final cost of attendance varies for each student based on household income, residency, program, and other factors.

Average costs by household income

Tuition and fees, room and board costs, carnegie mellon university majors.

Carnegie Mellon University has granted 1,618 bachelor's degrees across 67 programs, 2,780 master's across 78 programs, and 361 doctorate degrees across 44 programs. Below is a table with majors that lead to degrees at Carnegie Mellon University.

Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 92%, which is among the 4% highest for universities in the US.

Publications & Citations

Carnegie Mellon University is a world-class research university with 120,130 scientific papers published and 4,902,742 citations received. The research profile covers a range of fields, including Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum and Particle physics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Mathematics.

Publication / Citation count by topic

Annual publication & citation counts, carnegie mellon university alumni.

Andy Warhol

Andy Warhol was an American visual artist, film director, producer, and leading figure in the pop art movement. His works explore the relationship between artistic expression, advertising, and celebrity culture that flourished by the 1960s, and span a variety of media, including painting, silkscreening, photography, film, and sculpture. Some of his best-known works include the silkscreen paintings Campbell's Soup Cans (1962) and Marilyn Diptych (1962), the experimental films Empire (1964) and Chelsea Girls (1966), and the multimedia events known as the Exploding Plastic Inevitable (1966–67).

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Green Hawke is an American actor, author and film director. He made his film debut in Explorers (1985), before making a breakthrough performance in Dead Poets Society (1989). Hawke starred alongside Julie Delpy in Richard Linklater's Before trilogy from 1995 to 2013. Hawke received two nominations for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Training Day (2001) and Boyhood (2014) and two for Best Adapted Screenplay for co-writing Before Sunset (2004) and Before Midnight (2013). Other notable roles include in Reality Bites (1994), Gattaca (1997), Great Expectations (1998), Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007), Maggie's Plan (2015), First Reformed (2017), The Black Phone (2021) and The Northman (2022).

Gabriel Macht

Gabriel Swann Macht is an American actor. He is best known for portraying Harvey Specter in the USA Network series Suits (2011–2019). Macht retired from acting after Suits, but briefly returned to acting in February 2024 when he appeared in a Super bowl half time commercial with his co-star Patrick J. Adams both portraying their characters from the hit American legal drama television series Suits.

John Forbes Nash

John Forbes Nash, Jr., known and published as John Nash, was an American mathematician who made fundamental contributions to game theory, real algebraic geometry, differential geometry, and partial differential equations. Nash and fellow game theorists John Harsanyi and Reinhard Selten were awarded the 1994 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics. In 2015, he and Louis Nirenberg were awarded the Abel Prize for their contributions to the field of partial differential equations.

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Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs

Graduate education at carnegie mellon.

Carnegie Mellon is a research university with a proud heritage of outstanding graduate and undergraduate education. Our programs are ranked among the top in the country.  All of our seven colleges and schools offer Master's and Doctoral degrees and several offer  online programs  in addition to programs at locations around the world.

A cornerstone of our graduate education has been research with a focus on advancing knowledge and finding meaningful solutions to significant problems of society. This real-world, hands-on approach has made Carnegie Mellon home to excellent faculty and students in engineering, computer science, the natural sciences, humanities and social sciences, business administration and the fine arts. This philosophy has also been the basis for interdisciplinary study and research to an extent that is rarely found elsewhere. Carnegie Mellon houses a myriad of interdisciplinary research facilities that combine expertise in diverse fields to produce exciting new areas of exploration.

Our commitment to diversity in our research and in our student population truly makes Carnegie Mellon a unique place to carry out your graduate education. Support for our graduate students and respect for diversity begins with recruitment and continues through our many retention programs. Whether students are looking for professional development opportunities or funding for conference attendance or GuSH (small project), Carnegie Mellon provides people, programs and resources for our students to succeed.

We invite you to explore the many facets of graduate study at Carnegie Mellon through this website and the departmental and program websites identified in the Guide to Graduate Degrees and Programs . Each program manages their own graduate admissions process, so if you have questions, please contact the departments you are interested in directly.

Thank you, Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs

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