Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA · private nonprofit
Official site ↗Admissions
| Admit rate | 11.1% |
| Applicants | 34,867 |
| Middle-50% SAT | 1500–1560 |
| Middle-50% ACT | 34–36 |
| Avg GPA | 3.89 |
| Test policy | — |
| Avg net price / yr | $31,671 |
| Grad rate | 93% |
| Median earnings (10 yr) | $114,862 |
| Source | cds · 2025 |
Application requirements
| Early Decision | 2026-11-02 |
| Regular / Rolling | 2027-01-04 |
| Application fee | $75 (US) · $75 (intl) |
| Personal essay | Not required |
| Portfolio | College's own system |
| Counselor recommendation | Required |
Source: Common App first-year Requirements Grid, 2026-27 cycle. Confirm on the college's site — requirements can change mid-cycle.
Supplemental essays
~300 words each.
- 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?
- 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?
- 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).
Copied verbatim from the school's official admissions page (2025-26 cycle).