Carnegie Mellon Application Requirements

Hi all, I'm really interested in applying to Carnegie Mellon next year. Can someone give me an idea of what their application requirements are? I want to make sure I have everything in order when I start applying to colleges. Thanks in advance!

Hi there! It's great that you're interested in applying to Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). I'll give you an overview of the general application requirements and some tips on what to focus on as you prepare your application. For a more detailed breakdown and updates, you should visit CMU's official website.

1. Application: CMU accepts only the Common Application, so if you're using the Coalition App for your other schools, make sure you note that you'll need to make a Common App account for CMU.

2. Academic Requirements: CMU requires an official high school transcript, which must include your coursework, grades, and class rank (if your school provides it). If applicable, you should also submit any college or university transcripts for dual-enrollment or early college programs.

3. Standardized Test Scores: Carnegie Mellon is test optional for the Class of 2024 and 2025, so you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. However, at such a selective school, submitting test scores can still be a good idea, as you generally want to showcase your strengths in as many ways as possible. For more detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/

4. Letters of Recommendation: CMU requires two letters of recommendation—one from a school counselor and one from a teacher who has taught you in an academic subject. These letters should provide insight into your academic abilities, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.

5. Extracurricular Activities: CMU considers your involvement in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, community service, and leadership positions. Make sure to highlight your most significant accomplishments and any leadership roles to showcase your dedication and impact.

6. Essays: There's a main essay in the Common App, which you can use to showcase your personal voice and give a glimpse into your non-academic achievements, experiences, or life story. In addition, CMU has its own supplemental essays, that typically ask you to explain why you're specifically interested in your chosen major and CMU as a whole. CollegeVine's blog contains detailed breakdowns of how to tackle both the personal statement and the CMU-specific supplemental essays.

- Personal Statement: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-common-application-essays/

- Supplemental Essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-carnegie-mellon-essays/

7. Application Fee: CMU has a $50 nonrefundable application fee. If you need assistance with this fee, you can request a fee waiver through the Common or Coalition App.

Please note that specific programs, like the School of Drama, the School of Music, and the School of Design, have additional requirements such as audition, portfolio, and writing supplements. Make sure to visit individual program websites for detailed information.

Lastly, if you're an international candidate, there might be additional requirements such as English proficiency tests and financial documentations.

As you prepare your application, focus on presenting a complete picture of your academic ability, personal qualities, and potential contributions to the CMU community. At selective schools like CMU, you want to be sure that your strengths come across fully in each component of your application. Good luck!