carnegie mellon computer science phd acceptance rate

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie)

Graduate School (Engineering) • Pittsburgh, PA •  

Graduate School (Engineering) • Pittsburgh, PA

More from CMU

• Graduate Schools
• Online Programs
• Global Universities

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) Engineering School Overview

The Carnegie Institute of Technology at Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $75 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $54,700 per year and part-time: $2,280 per credit. The 2023 Ph.D. student-faculty ratio is 4.5:1. The Carnegie Institute of Technology at Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) has 336 full-time faculty on staff.

+ Show More

At-a-Glance

Acceptance Rate (master's)

Tuition & Fees (Doctorate)

$54,700 per year

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) 2024 Engineering & Specialties Rankings

Overall Score

Peer assessment score (out of 5)

Recruiter assessment score (out of 5)

Engineering School Rankings

• # 7 in Best Engineering Schools

Engineering School Specialty Rankings

• # 12 in Biomedical Engineering / Bioengineering  (tie)
• in Chemical Engineering
• # 12 in Civil Engineering  (tie)
• # 5 in Computer Engineering
• # 7 in Electrical / Electronic / Communications Engineering  (tie)
• # 8 in Environmental / Environmental Health Engineering
• # 12 in Materials Engineering  (tie)
• # 10 in Mechanical Engineering  (tie)

Engineering School Admissions

Application Fee

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) Admissions

Applicants :

(Master's)

UNLOCK WITH COMPASS

Engineering School Cost

$48,250 per year (in-state) $48,250 per year (out-of-state)

Tuition (Doctoral, Part-Time)

Tuition (Master's, Full-Time)

Tuition (Master's, Part-Time)

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) Cost

Engineering school student population.

Enrollment (Full-Time Master's)

Enrollment (Part-Time Master's)

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) Student Population

Gender distribution of enrolled (master's) :

Minority Enrollment

International

Two or more races

Not Specified is not included in this breakdown due to an enrollment of 0%.

Find the Best Student Loan Refinance Lenders

Advertiser Disclosure

Faculty Research Impact

Citations per publication

Field weighted citation impact

Publications Cited in top 5% of Most Cited Journals

Publications Cited in top 25% of Most Cited Journals

Engineering School Academics

Engineering School details based on 2023 data.

Do you work at Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) ?

Manage your school's public image and connection with students using U.S. News Student Connect.

Reviews & Ratings

See reviews and ratings of this school from students, alumni, staff and others. These reviews are not written by U.S. News and have no impact on any of the Best Graduate Schools rankings.

This school does not have enough reviews yet. Click here to submit your review.

You May Also Like

Engineering grad schools with most women.

Cole Claybourn Dec. 5, 2024

7 Sins of Business School Applicants

Anayat Durrani Dec. 3, 2024

Colleges With Microbreweries on Campus

Cole Claybourn Dec. 3, 2024

Tips for Med School Applicants' Parents

Kathleen Franco, M.D., M.S. Nov. 26, 2024

Law Applicants and Disciplinary Issues

Gabriel Kuris Nov. 25, 2024

Primary Care vs. Research Med Schools

Anna Fiorino Nov. 21, 2024

Do Law Schools Accept Associate Degrees?

Gabriel Kuris Nov. 18, 2024

Is Law School Worth the Price?

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn Nov. 12, 2024

Tips for Foreign Law School Applicants

Gabriel Kuris Nov. 12, 2024

Coping With Death as a Future Doctor

Kathleen Franco, M.D., M.S. Nov. 5, 2024

*** Enter the $2,000 College Transitions No Essay Scholarship Contest ***

How to Get Into Carnegie Mellon: Acceptance Rate & Strategies

June 14, 2024

Over 33,000 high-achieving teens applied to be part of Carnegie Mellon’s Class of 2027, and the vast majority of successful applicants had pristine transcripts and SATs of 1500 or better. Selectivity at this school, which is named after two famous/infamous Captains of Industry/Robber Barons is nothing new, but it has reached previously unimaginable levels in recent years. In the 1980s, the acceptance rate hovered between 42-46% and the average SAT was just a shade over 1200. By the year 2000, the school received over 14,000 applications each cycle and the Carnegie Mellon acceptance rate was 36%.

In addition to the rise in selectivity, CMU also has a somewhat complex application process and a varying degree of difficulty depending on which of the university’s seven undergraduate colleges/programs you hope to enter. To assist you in this quest, we will provide those considering applying to Carnegie Mellon University with the following:

• Carnegie Mellon’s acceptance rate
• Carnegie Mellon’s ED acceptance rate
• SAT, ACT, GPA, and class rank of accepted Carnegie Mellon applicants
• Admissions trends at Carnegie Mellon
• Carnegie Mellon’s system for rating applicants
• A look at the demographics of Carnegie Mellon undergraduates
• The percentage of accepted students that attend the university
• Tips for applying to Carnegie Mellon
• CMU essay prompts
• How to assess whether applying to Carnegie Mellon is even worth the $75 application fee (for you)
• Whether CMU is transfer-friendly

Let’s begin with an examination of the most recent admissions data.

Carnegie Mellon Acceptance Rate

Of 33,707 applications submitted for the Class of 2027, 3,843 were admitted for a Carnegie Mellon University acceptance rate of only 11.4%. This was identical to the acceptance rate for the Class of 2026. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by school/program. Below, we’ve included CMU acceptance rates by College for the Class of 2024 (most recent available):

Carnegie Mellon Early Decision Acceptance Rate

For the Class of 2026 (most recent available), the Carnegie Mellon University ED acceptance rate was 12.5%. While this is higher than the regular decision clip, this figure represents less of an advantage than at many other elite institutions, where rates can be 2-3 times higher for ED applicants. The deadline for early decision at CMU is November 1 and decisions are made by December 15. They also have an ED II option with an early January deadline.

What GPA do you need to get into Carnegie Mellon?

Among enrolled 2023-2024 first-year students, the average GPA was 3.91.

49% of enrolled students had a GPA of 4.0 or above, while 41% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99. Only 10% of students had a GPA under 3.74.

What class rank do you need to get accepted to Carnegie Mellon?

Among enrolled 2023-24 first-year students, an impressive 92% hailed from the top 10%, while 99% earned a place in the top 25%.

What is the minimum SAT or ACT score for Carnegie Mellon?

For the Class of 2027, the mid-50% percentile SAT score was 1500-1560, while the mid-50% percentile ACT score was 34-35. Additionally, 95% of those who submitted the SAT scored between 1400 and 1600; 98% of those who submitted the ACT scored over 30.

Finally, even though Carnegie Mellon is test-optional, 68% of enrolled students did so, so it’s in your best interest to take either the SAT or ACT and try to do as well on it as possible.

CMU Acceptance Rate by College

The SAT and ACT middle-50% ranges as well as the average GPA, by college, for the Class of 2024 (most recent available) are as follows:

Admissions Trends & Notes

• CMU will continue to be test-optional for students applying to join the university in fall 2025.
• The Class of 2027 included 14% first-generation college students, up from 9% three years prior.
• International students make up 23% of the student body. Within the Class of 2027, 36 countries represented.
• The number of applicants dropped slightly from 2022 to 2023.

How Carnegie Mellon Rates Applicants

There are six factors that Carnegie Mellon ranks as being “very important” to their admissions process: rigor of secondary school record, class rank, GPA, extracurricular activities, volunteer work experience, and paid work experience.  Essays, recommendations, first-generation status, legacy status, character/personal qualities, race/ethnicity, and talent/ability are “important” to the admissions committee. Standardized test scores are “considered.”

Carnegie Mellon is not going to be impressed that you filled the ten spaces on the Common App Activity List; they are looking for genuine excellence in one or more activities. For example, you placed in a prestigious international science or mathematics competition, you co-authored original research, you developed an app, or you used your skills to help a charitable institution.

Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rate (Continued)

According to the school:

• “No single grade, factor, score or activity will automatically gain or deny you admission to Carnegie Mellon. We treat every applicant as an individual, taking great care to make our admission decisions fair, thorough and sensitive. We’re interested in students who can be successful at Carnegie Mellon, while taking full advantage of all the university has to offer and enriching our campus community.”
• Your non-academic interests, including extracurricular involvement, part-time jobs, family commitments, hobbies and community engagement play a very important role in the admission process. We also consider collaboration, perseverance, passion, advocacy for others and self-direction when making admission decisions.
• Think carefully about your Carnegie Mellon college selection(s) before applying. While you may apply to up to two colleges or programs that match your interests, bear in mind that most applicants will only be selected for their highest-choice college to which they‘re admissible.

Who Actually Gets Into Carnegie Mellon?

Let’s look at the demographics of current Carnegie Mellon undergraduates.

Geographically, one recent CMU class had the following distribution:

• In-state students: 13%
• Out-of-state students: 87%

The Mid-Atlantic Region was the most represented area (37%), and competition is typically stiffest among those hailing from states with endless streams of qualified applicants (the entire Northeast & the West Coast). Contrarily, some recent classes contained no students from Alaska, Maine, Montana, Nebraska, or Wyoming. However, the Class of 2027 hailed from 47 states and 38 countries.

Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown for the Class of 2027 is as follows:

• Hispanic: 10%
• Black or African American: 7%
• International: 18%

The countries sending the greatest number of students to CMU are:

• South Korea

The breakdown by gender is as follows:

• Female: 46%
• Non-binary: 4%

In the past, women have enjoyed a much better acceptance rate than men, as the university has historically received far fewer applications from female students. For the Class of 2026, this was 9% (for men) versus 15% for women.

Carnegie Mellon’s Yield Rate

Carnegie Mellon’s yield rate—the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted is 44%. This number is over 30 points lower than Harvard and Stanford but in the same ballpark as many other selective private universities. Carnegie Mellon sports a similar yield rate to schools like the University of Michigan, Amherst College, and Tulane University.

Tips for Applying to Carnegie Mellon

If you plan on joining the 33,000+ CMU hopefuls for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:

• Carnegie Mellon does not offer any type of in-person or alumni interviews for incoming freshmen. As a result, one of the best ways for admissions officers to get to know you on a personal level is through your two required recommendations—one from your counselor and one from your teacher. Applicants are also permitted to include an optional third letter of recommendation. For tips on which teachers to target and how to ask, revisit How to Request Letters of Recommendation. 
• Carnegie Mellon does not officially consider “ demonstrated interest ” so you won’t be judged on whether or not you made a campus visit (in non-pandemic times), contacted an admissions officer, etc. However, given the school’s lower yield rate (compared to some other elite schools), it is never a bad idea to reach out to an admissions officer with a question, attend a virtual session, craft thoughtful essays, and/or engage with the school on social media.
• When applying to CMU, you must apply to specific college. To apply to more than one college, you will need to fill out a separate application and submit an additional application fee. However, CMU does allow you to select a second-choice school on a singular application.
• Make sure to dedicate sufficient time and effort to three 300-word supplemental essays required by Carnegie Mellon. In the 2023-24 cycle, they are as follows:

CMU Essay Prompts

1) 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?

2) 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?

3) 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).

For more on how to tackle the CMU essays visit our blog: Carnegie Mellon – Essay Prompts and Tips .

Should I apply to Carnegie Mellon?

Those that will fare best in conquering this admissions gauntlet will boast a transcript of straight ‘A’s in an exceptionally rigorous program of classes, superior standardized test scores (typically 98th percentile or better), and at least one or two talents and passions outside of the classroom.

Do I have a better chance of acceptance as a transfer student?

Unfortunately, no. The CMU acceptance rate for transfers is lower than it is for freshmen. In the most recent cycle, only 87 students were accepted out of 1,507 applicants, meaning that the transfer acceptance rate was 6%. Here is a sampling of past transfer acceptance rates:

Read more about the Carnegie Mellon transfer rates and requirements here .

CMU Acceptance Rate – Final Thoughts

If you bring strong academic and extracurricular credentials to the table, there is no harm in filling out a Carnegie Mellon application, but—as with all highly competitive colleges in 2024—even the best and brightest teens need to have an appropriate college list , containing a complement of “target” and “safety” schools.

Additional resources you might find useful:

• Should You Start College Applications in the Summer?
• What is Demonstrated Interest?
• Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
• College Fair Advice for High School Students
• How to Complete the Common App Activities List
• Common App Essay Prompts
• Application Strategies

Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

• 2-Year Colleges
• ADHD/LD/Autism/Executive Functioning
• Best Colleges by Major
• Best Colleges by State
• Big Picture
• Career & Personality Assessment
• College Essay
• College Search/Knowledge
• College Success
• Costs & Financial Aid
• Data Visualizations
• Dental School Admissions
• Extracurricular Activities
• General Knowledge
• Graduate School Admissions
• High School Success
• High Schools
• Homeschool Resources
• Law School Admissions
• Medical School Admissions
• Navigating the Admissions Process
• Online Learning
• Outdoor Adventure
• Private High School Spotlight
• Research Programs
• Summer Program Spotlight
• Summer Programs
• Teacher Tools
• Test Prep Provider Spotlight

“Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.”

— Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Nationally Recognized College Expert

$2,000 No Essay Scholarship

Presented by College Transitions

• Win $2,000 for college • 1 minute or less to enter • No essay required • Open to students and parents in the U.S.

Create your account today and easily enter all future sweepstakes!

Enter to Win $2,000 Today!

Doctoral Degree in Computer Science

Carnegie Mellon's Ph.D. in Computer Science is, above all, a research degree. When the faculty award a Ph.D., they certify that the student has a broad foundation and awareness of core concepts in computer science, has advanced the field by performing significant original research and has reported that work in a scholarly fashion.

When you begin our Ph.D. program, you’ll take the Introductory Course for Doctoral Students — an intense two week program that orients you to the department, introduces you to research and education topics our faculty are interested in, helps you find a faculty advisor and familiarizes you with Carnegie Mellon’s resources. Next, you’ll gain a broad understanding of fundamental research issues in major areas of computer science through coursework and original research. Finally, you’ll write and orally defend a thesis that guarantees you understand the area well enough to advance the state of knowledge in the field.

During the first two years of the program, you’ll gain the foundation of knowledge that will allow you to become an expert researcher in computer science, primarily by

• Mastering a body of graduate material, achieved by passing 96 university units worth of graduate courses (equivalent to eight full-time courses).
• Learning how to organize and begin to carry out original research, achieved by participating in directed research.

You will also serve as a teaching assistant, hone your writing and speaking skills and maintain your programming prowess. You’ll also receive periodic evaluation of your progress, and must make satisfactory progress to continue in the program.

Time Commitment:

As a Ph.D. student in computer science at CMU, you'll spend roughly five years acquiring a body of technical knowledge that includes a familiarity with the breadth of the field, as well as a deep understanding of your research area. From your second month in the program, you'll work closely with your faculty advisor, who is charged with guiding your education and monitoring your progress through the program. You'll take courses, teach and perform directed research — all to ensure that you leave Carnegie Mellon as an expert in your field. For a complete breakdown of our program requirements, read our CSD PhD Handbook .

Financial Information:

The Computer Science Department offers all Ph.D. students full financial support while they are in good academic standing in their respective programs. To learn more about Ph.D. funding, visit the SCS  Doctoral Programs  webpage.

Graduate Tuition: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/graduate/scs.html

Student Fees: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/fees/index.html

Carnegie Mellon Graduate Student Financial Aid: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/graduate/index.html

• Current Semester Courses
• Upcoming Semester Courses
• Schedule of Classes
• Undergraduate Catalog
• Bachelor's Programs
• Master's Programs
• Ph.D. in Computer Science
• Ph.D. in ACO
• Ph.D. in PAL
• CNBC Certificate Program
• Ph.D. Dual Degree Portugal
• Doctoral - How to Apply
• Degrees Conferred
• Other SCS Doctoral Programs
• Student Resources

Carnegie Mellon Computer Science Acceptance Rate: How Hard Is It To Get In?

With top-ranked programs in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, and software engineering, Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science is one of the most prestigious in the world. But its elite reputation comes with an extremely competitive admissions process.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: For the 2022-2023 application cycle, Carnegie Mellon accepted just 5% of applicants to its computer science programs, making it one of the toughest admissions rates in the country .

Carnegie Mellon CS Program Overview

Carnegie Mellon University’s Computer Science program is highly esteemed and renowned for its excellence in both undergraduate and graduate education. With a strong emphasis on tech innovation and research, it has consistently ranked among the top institutions for computer science education in the United States.

Ranked #1 grad CS program in U.S.

Carnegie Mellon’s graduate Computer Science program holds the prestigious distinction of being ranked as the number one program in the country. This recognition highlights the university’s commitment to providing an exceptional education in computer science at the graduate level.

The program boasts a rigorous curriculum, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a faculty composed of leading experts in various areas of computer science.

Undergrad also ranked top 5 nationally

Not only does Carnegie Mellon excel in its graduate Computer Science program, but its undergraduate program is also highly esteemed. Consistently ranked within the top five nationally, the undergraduate program offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum that prepares students for successful careers in the field of computer science.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, industry partnerships, and a supportive community of peers and faculty.

Focus on tech innovation and research

Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science program places a strong emphasis on tech innovation and research. Students have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects and collaborate with renowned researchers in various areas of computer science.

This focus on innovation and research not only enhances the educational experience but also equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to make significant contributions to the field.

For more information about Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science program, you can visit their official website: https://www.cs.cmu.edu/ .

Admissions Statistics Snapshot

Around 4,000 apps for 125 cs grad spots.

When it comes to Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science graduate program, the competition is fierce. With approximately 4,000 applications received each year for just 125 spots, it’s clear that the admissions process is highly selective.

The program attracts top talent from around the world, making it a coveted destination for aspiring computer scientists.

15,000+ apps for 400 CS undergrad seats

For undergraduate computer science programs at Carnegie Mellon, the numbers are even more staggering. With over 15,000 applications vying for approximately 400 seats, the acceptance rate for undergraduates is incredibly low.

This high demand is a testament to the reputation and quality of the program, as well as the opportunities it provides for students to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation.

Sub-10% acceptance rates

Both the graduate and undergraduate computer science programs at Carnegie Mellon boast acceptance rates that are below 10%. This means that the majority of applicants will unfortunately receive rejection letters.

However, it’s important to note that the acceptance rate alone does not define the quality of a program or an applicant’s potential for success. Many factors, including academic achievements, research experience, and personal statements, are taken into consideration during the admissions process.

For more information on Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science programs and the admissions process, you can visit their official website at https://www.cs.cmu.edu . There, you’ll find detailed information about the curriculum, faculty, and research opportunities that make Carnegie Mellon a top choice for computer science education.

Factors in the Admissions Decision

When it comes to securing a spot at Carnegie Mellon’s renowned Computer Science program, there are several factors that come into play in the admissions decision. These factors help the admissions committee identify applicants who show promise in excelling in the program and contributing to the field of computer science.

Academic excellence, especially in technical courses

One of the key factors that the admissions committee considers is academic excellence. Carnegie Mellon is known for its rigorous curriculum, and they look for applicants who have demonstrated a strong aptitude for technical courses.

This includes a solid foundation in math and science, as well as advanced coursework in computer science if available. A high GPA in these areas can greatly increase an applicant’s chances of acceptance.

High SAT/ACT scores for undergrad applicants

Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are also important factors in the admissions decision. Carnegie Mellon values applicants who have performed well on these tests, as they serve as indicators of an applicant’s ability to handle the academic rigor of the program.

While there is no specific cutoff score, it is generally recommended to aim for scores in the upper percentile range to be competitive.

Strong letters of recommendation

Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in the admissions process. Carnegie Mellon looks for letters that highlight an applicant’s academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential for success in the computer science program.

These letters should be written by individuals who can speak to the applicant’s skills, work ethic, and passion for computer science. It is important to choose recommenders who know the applicant well and can provide specific examples of their strengths.

Relevant extracurriculars like coding projects

While academic achievements are important, Carnegie Mellon also values applicants who have gone above and beyond in their extracurricular activities. In particular, involvement in coding projects or other relevant activities can demonstrate a genuine passion for computer science and a commitment to learning outside of the classroom.

These experiences can help set an applicant apart from others and show their potential to contribute to the field.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

Applying to Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science program can be highly competitive, so it’s important to make your application stand out from the rest. Here are some tips on how to impress the admissions committee and increase your chances of acceptance:

Take the most rigorous high school CS courses available

One way to demonstrate your passion for computer science is by taking challenging courses in high school. Carnegie Mellon values applicants who have a strong foundation in computer science, so make sure to enroll in advanced placement (AP) or honors courses if they are available.

These courses will not only help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge but also show the admissions committee that you are willing to push yourself academically.

Showcase coding skills through internships and side projects

Coding skills are highly valued in the field of computer science, and Carnegie Mellon wants to see evidence of your abilities. To stand out, consider participating in internships or working on side projects that allow you to apply your coding skills in real-world settings.

These experiences will not only enhance your technical abilities but also demonstrate your commitment to the field.

Highlight research experience and publications

Carnegie Mellon is known for its cutting-edge research in computer science. To demonstrate your potential as a future researcher, highlight any research experience you have had during high school. This could include participating in science fairs, working with professors, or conducting independent research.

Additionally, if you have any publications or presentations related to your research, be sure to include them in your application.

Convey genuine interest in Carnegie Mellon’s programs

Carnegie Mellon wants to admit students who are genuinely interested in their programs and have a clear understanding of what the university has to offer. Take the time to research the computer science department, its faculty, and specific programs that interest you.

In your application, be sure to articulate why you believe Carnegie Mellon is the right fit for your academic and career goals. This will show the admissions committee that you have done your homework and are truly dedicated to becoming a part of the Carnegie Mellon community.

Admissions Tips Summary

Build an outstanding academic record.

To increase your chances of getting accepted into Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science program, it is essential to build an outstanding academic record. This means excelling in your high school coursework, particularly in math and science.

Take advanced placement courses, if available, and challenge yourself academically. Maintaining a high GPA and achieving good grades will demonstrate your ability to handle the rigorous curriculum at Carnegie Mellon.

Demonstrate passion for computer science

Carnegie Mellon values students who are passionate about computer science. To stand out in the applicant pool, it is important to demonstrate your genuine interest in the field. Participate in coding competitions, join computer science clubs or organizations, and take on coding projects outside of the classroom.

Your extracurricular activities and personal projects will showcase your dedication and commitment to computer science.

Ace standardized test scores

Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, play a significant role in the admissions process. Aim for a score that is competitive with previous admitted students. Prepare for the tests by utilizing study materials and taking practice exams.

If you feel that your scores do not accurately represent your abilities, consider retaking the tests to improve your chances of acceptance.

Convey why Carnegie Mellon is a top choice

To make your application stand out, it is crucial to convey why Carnegie Mellon is your top choice for studying computer science. Research the program extensively and highlight specific aspects that align with your academic and career goals.

Showcase your knowledge of Carnegie Mellon’s renowned faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong industry connections. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm for the program and your commitment to contributing to the Carnegie Mellon community.

Remember, while these tips can increase your chances of acceptance, there are no guarantees in the college admissions process. It’s important to showcase your unique qualities and let your true passion for computer science shine through in your application.

With acceptance rates in the single digits, Carnegie Mellon sets a very high bar for computer science applicants. Standing out takes a stellar academic transcript, high test scores, relevant experience, and a persuasive statement of purpose.

However, for those able to gain admission, Carnegie Mellon offers unparalleled opportunities at the peak of technology research and innovation.

Similar Posts

Is A Political Science Degree Useless? Examining The Value And Career Options

With concerns over job prospects and ROI on college degrees, some have questioned whether majoring in political science is a useless endeavor. But is this perception accurate when examining the skills gained and career paths available? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick take: While a political science degree alone may not lead to…

Science In Everyday Life: 50 Examples Showing How Science Impacts Our Daily Activities

Science plays a vital role in our daily lives, even if we don’t always realize it. From the alarm that wakes us up to the phones we scroll through before bed, advancements in science, technology, engineering, and math touch every aspect of our routines. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer on examples…

What Science Courses Are Taught In 9Th Grade? A Comprehensive Overview

Starting high school is an exciting new chapter! As a 9th grader, you’ll begin building the science knowledge needed for future STEM courses and college majors. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Most 9th graders take a basic physical science course covering physics, chemistry, and space science concepts. Biology is sometimes offered…

Is Usc Good For Computer Science?

With its location in the tech hub of Los Angeles and brand as a prestigious private university, USC seems like a strong choice for computer science. But how does its computer science program actually stack up? This in-depth guide examines USC’s CS academics, resources, outcomes, and more to determine if it delivers a top-tier education….

Does Environmental Science Have Math?

From analyzing pollution levels to modeling climate change, environmental science plays a crucial role in understanding and protecting our planet. But how much math does an environmental science career actually involve? Let’s dig into the numbers. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Yes, environmental science relies heavily on mathematical concepts and skills…

Is Purdue Good For Computer Science?

Choosing where to study computer science is an important decision that can impact your learning experience, career prospects, and network. If you’re short on time, here’s the quick take: With highly-ranked programs, distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and renowned tech graduates, Purdue University provides an excellent environment for computer science students. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll…

Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs

Prospective graduate student information.

Carnegie Mellon University is a global research university with a proud heritage of outstanding graduate and undergraduate education and research. Our vision is that CMU will meet the changing needs of society by building on its traditions of innovation, problem solving and interdisciplinarity. From the arts to technology, humanities and the sciences, we reach across boundaries to bring together bright minds to move us forward locally, nationally and globally with creative solutions to worldwide challenges.

CMU is home to master’s and doctoral programs within our seven schools and colleges, which are ranked among the top in the country .  CMU also offers online programs and dozens of interdisciplinary programs . In addition, CMU is a global university with more than a dozen degree-granting locations and more than 20 research partnerships.

To learn more about the graduate programs offered at CMU, see the Guide to Graduate Degrees and Programs section , which provides a college-based list that will direct you to the college websites for detailed information. You are also encouraged to explore the information and resources throughout this website to learn more about the many facets of graduate study at CMU.

• Academic Calendar
• Discovering Pittsburgh
• Exploring Pittsburgh Travel and Accommodations
• Off-Campus Housing
• News and Events

A cornerstone of our graduate education is research with a focus on advancing knowledge and finding meaningful solutions to significant problems of society. This real-world, hands-on approach has made CMU home to excellent faculty and students in engineering, computer science, the natural sciences, humanities and social sciences, business administration and the fine arts.

This philosophy has also been the basis for interdisciplinary study and research to an extent that is rarely found elsewhere. CMU houses a myriad of interdisciplinary research facilities that combine expertise in diverse fields to produce exciting new areas of exploration.

Our commitment to diversity in our research and in our student population truly makes CMU a unique place to carry out your graduate education. Support for our graduate students and respect for diversity begins with recruitment and continues through our many retention programs. Whether students are looking for professional development opportunities, small project research grants or funding for conference attendance, CMU provides people, programs and resources for our students to succeed.

Admission and Application Process

Each program manages their own separate admissions process, including deadlines and requirements, and this information varies by department. You are encouraged to visit the department's website in which you are interested to find specific details.

A student’s qualifications are not assessed until a full application has been received and processed. To learn more about your eligibility and how to apply, visit the department’s website in which you are interested. Some departments provide a few guidelines regarding the level of competitiveness. If provided, this would be found on the department website.

You are welcome to apply to more than one program, but in most cases you will need to complete separate applications for each. It is recommended not to assume that you can submit the exact same materials for each and to look closely at each program’s application requirements. Moreover, many departments have a list of FAQs that will address common issues, so if you are having technical difficulties with the application, check the department website and if the problem is not addressed on the website, contact the department directly.

Check the department website for an admission notification timeline or contact a department administrator to find out when you can expect a response regarding admissions.

All admissions-related questions, including where to submit transcripts, exam requirements, and how to set up a visit, should be directed to the department in which you are interested by visiting the college/school website linked in the Guide to Graduate Degrees and Programs section .

Tuition and Financial Support

For the most part, students in the master's programs are self-supporting, and Ph.D. students are at least partially funded and encouraged to apply to fellowships. Each program makes their own arrangements regarding financial support of potential graduate students. Applicants should seek information from the department of interest for their specific opportunities. 

More information regarding tuition and fees can be found on the Student Financial Services website . 

Visit the Funding Opportunities and Fellowships page to learn more about the centralized programs and resources that are in place for graduate student conference funding, small project research grants, professional engagement funding, and fellowship and scholarship opportunities, including the CMU Rales Fellows Program .

Guide to Graduate Degrees and Programs

You are encouraged to explore the individual school/program’s website for a full listing of available programs. 

• College of Engineering
• College of Fine Arts
• Dietrich College of Humanities & Social Sciences
• Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy
• Mellon College of Science
• School of Computer Science
• Tepper School of Business

University-Level Programs

• Entertainment Technology Center
• Integrated Innovation Institute
• Online Programs

Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science

• Frequently Asked Questions

The School of Computer Science offers a wide range of professional and academic  Ph.D.  and master's programs  across its seven departments. Admissions and requirements vary by program, and are determined by the program's home department.  Below you will find a variety of frequently asked questions about our application process.

• For CBD, LTI, MLD, S3D, and RI applicants, you cannot make revisions to your application after it has been submitted.
• For CSD and HCIII applicants, you may make changes to your submitted application up until the application deadline, Dec. 11, 2024, at 3 p.m. EST.
• These may not be considered in the review of your application.
• It is your responsibility to make certain that your application is complete, and that the required materials reach us by the established deadline.
• Yes, do not wait to submit due to recommenders. We prefer that your recommenders submit their letters by the application deadline, but it is ok if they arrive a few days late. 
• Most of our programs only have a fall admission. See our Graduate Admissions Overview page for exceptions.
• Yes. However, you must complete a new application and upload all application materials again.
• You are free to contact professors with specific questions about their research. However, we request that you not ask to be accepted by a particular faculty member as a student, since under our admissions system individual faculty members do not make admissions decisions. Selection is made by the Admissions Committee, and students are not assigned an advisor until the beginning of the fall semester. This happens after students have an opportunity to attend project presentations by all faculty.
• You may obtain email addresses for anyone in the School of Computer Science from the   directory . 
• Your user ID is the email address that you use to login to the application.
• Note that this email address  will be used for all correspondence from us and for your letter of notification. M ake certain that it will be valid through the following year.  

Financial Aid and Application Fees

• No, master's programs generally do not offer financial aid.
• Yes. Ph.D. students will receive financial support (tuition, fees, monthly stipend) from a variety of sources, including CMU research assistantships, outside fellowships and government grants (e.g., NSF or other government institutions). Students are encouraged to apply for outside funding and fellowships; research assistantships are available for students without their own funding.
• We expect all applicants to submit payment with their online application. However, we do waive the required fee under certain circumstances. Fees for application to a limited number of our programs can be waived for participants in certain programs. In addition, if you are unable to pay the application fee, SCS will consider a fee waiver request. Visit the   SCS Fee Waivers page   for more information.
• You must pay the fee by credit card. We do not accept cash or check.
• For CBD, LTI, MLD, S3D, and RI applicants: Make sure your zip/postal code does not have any extra spaces. For international cardholders put "N/A".
• For CSD or HCII applicants: If your application payment is unsuccessful for any reason, the payment page will automatically reset so that the payment button will reappear. Wait and try again 10 minutes after your initial payment.

Biographical Information

• Refer to the   Office of International Education page . This page contains a wealth of information for international students accepted to CMU.
• Select the one that will most closely match your status when you arrive on campus.
• Use the address where you will be available to receive mail through April. You may enter a permanent address if it differs from your current address.   Do NOT enter a PO Box . The acceptance packets are sent by express mail (e.g., FedEx, UPS), and cannot be delivered to a PO Box.

Test Scores: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, GRE, and GMAT

If you will be studying on an F-1 or J-1 visa, and English is not a native language for you ("native language" meaning spoken at home and from birth), we are required to formally evaluate your English proficiency.

We require applicants who will be studying on an F-1 or J-1 visa, and for whom English is not a native language, to demonstrate English proficiency via one of these standardized tests: TOEFL (preferred), IELTS or Duolingo. We discourage the use of the "TOEFL ITP Plus for China", since speaking is not scored. 

We do not issue waivers for non-native speakers of English. In particular, we do not issue waivers based on previous study at a U.S. high school, college or university. We also do not issue waivers based on previous study at an English-language high school, college or university outside of the United States. No amount of educational experience in English, regardless of which country it occurred in, will result in a test waiver.

NOTE: Unfortunately, previous studies at a U.S. high school, college or university are NOT grounds for a language-test waiver. Also, previous studies at a non-U.S. English-language-instruction high school, college or university are NOT grounds for a language-test waiver.

• If you need to retake your TOEFL, IELTS and/or GRE for this application, we highly recommend you take the exam no later than Nov. 27, 2024. Reportable scores can take two weeks to process and we may not be able to review any scores that arrive after our Dec. 11, 2024, deadline.
• If you are currently working on or have received a bachelor's and/or a master's degree in the U.S. and your native language is not English, you may submit an expired test score up to five years old. TOEFL scores taken before Sept. 1, 2019, will not be accepted.
• Important: Applicants applying to MCDS and MHCI are required to submit a TOEFL score taken within the last two years. TOEFL scores taken before Sept. 1, 2022, will not be accepted. For more information about their policies, visit the MCDS or MHCI admission websites.
• Upload a PDF of your expired score to your application. Be sure that your expired scores meet our requirements. 
• No. You will need to submit a TOEFL that is not expired.  TOEFL scores taken before Sept. 1, 2022, will not be accepted.
• Yes. If you will be studying on an F-1 or J-1 visa, and English is not a native language for you ("native language" meaning spoken at home and since birth), we are required to formally evaluate your English proficiency.
• TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition
• TOEFL ITP Plus for China   (Note: We currently strongly discourage the use of the "TOEFL ITP Plus for China," since speaking is not scored. Applicants currently in mainland China are encouraged to take the IELTS test.)
• A successful applicant will normally have a total iBT score of at least 100.
• We prefer that you take the TOEFL, but we will accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The same restrictions of expiration dates apply with an IELTS.
• We will accept the IELTS Academic test. The IELTS Academic test is for people applying for higher education in an English-speaking environment.
• A TOEFL score of 100 is equivalent to an IELTS score of 7.
• Account Name : Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science Address: School of Computer Science 5000 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213 United States
• We prefer that you take the TOEFL or IELTS, but if you cannot do that, you may take the Duolingo test. Be sure to use the same email address as you plan to use when you apply to a CMU program. Also be sure that Duolingo scores are sent to “Carnegie Mellon University — Graduate Computer Science Programs."
• To see a score comparison please visit the Duolingo website . 
• Important: Make sure to request that Duolingo includes your subscores when they send your test results to Carnegie Mellon University — Graduate Computer Science Programs.
• Enter the scores from your most recent test. All scores will appear on the official score report for the committee to review.
• Each program sets its policy on whether GRE scores are required or not. You can read short descriptions of each program's GRE policy on the Graduate Application Instructions page.
• GRE scores will not be accepted if they are more than five years old.
• We generally accept the at home version, but each program sets its own policy. Check the GRE policies list to be sure that the program(s) you are applying to accept the at home version.
• Only the Societal Computing program will accept the GMAT.
• If you are applying to Societal Computing, enter the date that you took the GMAT in the box provided for the GRE test date. Upload your GMAT test scores in the GRE spot.
• This information should be entered in both sections.
• Enter your GPA exactly as given by your college/university, e.g. 3.5, 4.9, 9.6, etc.
• In the GPA Scale box, indicate the point system that your college/university uses (e.g., 4.0, 5.0, 10.0, etc.).
• To calculate your "major GPA," include the courses that you specified on your major.
• You are not to send your official transcripts until you have been admitted.
• We do not require you to upload a copy of your fall semester grades.
• If you are admitted, you should send us a final transcript.
• On the education section of the application, there is the option to enter your class rank. For example, you could enter "2nd of 109 students in Computer Science Department," or "45 of 1450 students in School of Engineering." The response here should preferably be short. If you want to give us more details about your ranking, provide it in your resume. Remember that this is an optional field, and you should feel free to leave it blank if you do not have this information or if you do not wish to share it.

Resume and Statement of Purpose

• For CBD, LTI, MLD, S3D, and RI applicants, you cannot make revisions to your application after it has been submitted.
• For CSD and HCII applicants you can simply upload the new Resume/Statement of Purpose, even if your application has been submitted but before the application deadline. It will override the original one.
• We recommend that you use AI tools only in a limited fashion. They are great for correcting grammar and spelling. They are terrible for expressing your own interests and experiences. Remember that you are solely responsible for 100% of what is submitted in your application. Please consider carefully how you use these tools as the use of them may impact your ability to be admitted.

Recommenders

• You may send a reminder email to a recommender (but no more than three times and not after the deadline) from your submitted application.
• You can still submit your application even if you have not received all of your letters of recommendation. 
• Three letters of recommendation are required. However, space is provided for you to submit up to five. No more than five will be accepted.
• The admissions committee wants to know about your ability to do independent research, so you should select letter writers who can best speak to that point.
• Professors who interacted with you extensively in smaller classes are also a good choice.
• Employers are sometimes appropriate, but letters that are simply character references will not provide good support for your application.
• At least two recommendation letters should be from faculty or recent employers.
• No they don't. If you submit your application early your recommenders still have until the final deadline to submit recommendations.
• Master's Programs
• About 1-2 years.
• Most of our programs require that you be here full time.
• You may not simply transfer to a program. You must submit an application and be accepted into the program.
• It may be possible to transfer from one program to another after your first year of enrollment, subject to the transfer policy adopted by each program.
• The order of preference will not affect your admission. You will be equally viewed by all programs that you apply to.

Ph.D. Programs

• About 5-6 years.
• Yes. You do not need a master's degree to apply to a Ph.D. program.
• The order of preference will not affect your admission. You will be equally viewed by all programs that you apply to. 
• If you apply through SCS, you must submit an application to the Ph.D. program in Computer Science. You should state in the first paragraph of your Statement of Purpose that you are interested in either ACO or PAL. If admitted, you will be allowed to choose that program during your first year.

Admissions Decisions

• Our programs make their decisions at various times during February and March.
• You will be notified directly by each program that you applied to as to whether or not you have been admitted.
• We realize that waiting is difficult; however, we request that you do not call our offices to inquire about the status of your application.
• Use your user ID and password to access the submitted online application form. 
• Receipt of the required uploaded documents (score reports, transcripts and letters of recommendation) will be indicated in the corresponding section.
• Allow three to four weeks past the deadline for all documents to be recorded, as it does take time to process each application.
• Do NOT send email to ask the status of your application.
• This policy may vary from program to program. After you are admitted, contact your program coordinator.

Application Mentorship

The SCS Graduate Application Support Program is a student-led initiative to offer feedback to potential applicants, particularly those from underrepresented groups. 

Learn more and apply to be matched with a mentor. 

Technical Issues

• If you encounter any technical issues while completing your application,  report a problem .

Helpful Links

• Graduate Admissions Overview
• Application Instructions
• Doctoral Programs
• Program Leadership

Application Deadline

Early Deadline: Nov. 20, 2024   (3 p.m. EST)

Final Deadline: Dec. 11, 2024    (3 p.m. EST)

GRE & TOEFL Codes

GRE Report Codes:

• Institution Code - 2074
• Department Code - 0402

TOEFL Report Codes:

• Institution Code - 4256
• Department Code - 78