Hi there! I'm a junior in high school and really interested in CMU's BCSA (Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts) program. I know it's competitive, but does anyone know the acceptance rate or any stats about admitted students? Any info would help a lot!
Hello! The Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts (BCSA) program at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is indeed quite competitive. While CMU doesn't release specific acceptance rates for individual programs, the acceptance rate for CMU's School of Computer Science (SCS) typically hovers around 5-7%, and the College of Fine Arts (CFA) is also quite competitive. Since the BCSA program combines academics from both of these colleges, you can expect the acceptance rate to be in a similar range, or even slightly lower.
In terms of admitted students' stats, there is no precise profile, but a strong BCSA applicant typically has outstanding achievements both in computer science and fine arts. You'll want to demonstrate proficiency in programming, logical reasoning, and math, as well as a solid foundation in your specific art discipline, be it visual arts, music, drama, or something else.
To increase your chances of being admitted, focus on excelling in relevant coursework, showcasing your talents and accomplishments in computer science and your chosen art discipline, and preparing strong application materials, including essays, portfolios, and recommendations. Remember that CMU, like many universities, considers a holistic approach when reviewing applications, so emphasizing your creativity, passion for interdisciplinary study, and potential contributions to the CMU community in as many ways as possible will be crucial.
Good luck!
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