Acceptance rate for CMU's School

I'm interested in applying to Carnegie Mellon University, specifically looking at some of their schools. Does anyone have insights on their acceptance rates or tips for improving my application? The competition seems intense and a bit intimidating.

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) indeed maintains rigorous admission standards, and acceptance rates can vary significantly across its schools. For instance, the School of Computer Science, known to be one of the best in the world, had an approximate acceptance rate of 7% in recent years. On the other hand, the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, often report higher acceptance rates.

To improve your application, consider these following tips:

1. Highlight your academic strengths: Grades and test scores are vital. Ascertain you've taken a rigorous curriculum in high school, and your grades are in line with or above CMU's average admitted student profile. CMU, like many other selective schools, uses the Academic Index, a value representing your grades, test scores, and class rank, but they do not publish these values, so be sure to compare your profile to the average admitted student's.

2. Showcase a spike: For CMU, developing a highly developed specialty, or a "spike," in particular areas can be beneficial. CMU highly encourages students to pursue their interests and gain distinctive experiences. For instance, if you’re interested in computer science, showing you’ve invested significant time in coding projects or competitions can help you stand out.

3. Include Tier 1/Tier 2 Extracurriculars: Engage in a few extracurriculars over an extended period. Leadership roles or achievements in these activities, especially on a national or state level, can significantly boost your application.

4. Write specific essays: When writing your Carnegie Mellon essays, be specific about what you want to study and why you want to study it at CMU. Research specific classes, professors, research projects, clubs, or cultural events related to your intended major that really epitomize why CMU is the best match for you.

5. Apply Early Decision: Applying Early Decision (ED) signifies a high level of interest in a specific school and can benefit your chances of being admitted. However, ED is a binding commitment, so only employ this strategy if CMU is your top choice.

Remember, while these tips can guide you, every application is individually reviewed, and there's no one-size-fits-all secret to getting into CMU. Good luck with your application!