I'm planning to apply to CMU, but I'm a little stressed - I'm afraid I might miss the deadline because of my heavy schoolwork. Have they ever made exceptions or given extensions before?
Carnegie Mellon University tends to adhere to its published deadlines, which are typically:
- Early Decision: November 1 (typically notified by mid-December)
- Regular Decision: January 2 (typically notified no later than April 1)
The university generally does not grant extensions for their applications, even in cases of heavy schoolwork. The deadlines are put in place to ensure a structured and fair admission process for all students. However, in exceptional cases like natural disasters or serious personal problems, they might offer some form of leniency, although this is rare and should not be relied upon. It's advisable to start working on your application as early as possible to avoid any last-minute stress and possible complications. Start by setting up a timeline for yourself to complete different parts of the application (such as essays, forms, and letters of recommendation) so it's not as overwhelming. If something unexpected and severe occurs close to the deadline, the best course of action would be to reach out to the Admissions Office as soon as possible, detailing your circumstances. They can provide guidance on how to proceed. But remember, these are exceptions and not the norm, so it's crucial to plan ahead.
Good luck with your application!
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