For many MBA aspirants, the dream of studying at a top-tier business school is fueled by the desire to gain a world-class education, expand professional networks, and open doors to prestigious career opportunities.
Among the elite institutions on their radar is Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), renowned for its innovative approach to business education. The CMU MBA program, offered by the Tepper School of Business, stands out for its strong focus on analytical decision-making, technology, and leadership.
However, with an acceptance rate of Carnegie Mellon University at just 11%, you might be wondering what it takes to stand out in such a competitive pool.
To give you a clearer picture of what you’re up against, here’s a quick overview of the admission statistics for Carnegie Mellon University:
Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rate 2024
| Particulars | Headcount/Percentage |
| Applicants | 33,707 |
| Admitted Students | 3,843 |
| Students Enrolled | 1,708 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.40% |
| Yield Rate | 44.40% |
In Fall 2023, Carnegie Mellon University received over 33,000 applications from aspiring undergraduates and graduates, with only about 3,800 receiving admission offers. This selectivity highlights why the Carnegie Mellon University acceptance rate is so low—it reflects the high standards and intense competition among applicants. But don’t let these numbers intimidate you! The admissions team looks beyond just test scores and statistics; they are interested in your personal story, leadership abilities, and how you can contribute to the vibrant CMU MBA community.
Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rate for International Students 2024
As of Fall 2023, the total student enrollment at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh is 16,335. This includes both undergraduate and graduate students, with a significant proportion of them coming from outside the United States. The university boasts a large number of international students, reflecting its global appeal and commitment to diversity.
Here’s a breakdown of the current enrollment statistics:
| Particulars | Statistics |
| Total Enrollment | 16,335 |
| Undergraduate Students | 7,604 |
| Graduate Students | 8,542 |
| International Students | 7,332 |
| International Undergraduate Students | 1,767 |
| International Graduate Students | 5,504 |
| Nationalities Represented | 117 |
With over 7,000 international students representing 117 different countries, Carnegie Mellon University is clearly a destination for students who are eager to learn in a globally diverse environment. The Carnegie Mellon University acceptance rate for international students remains competitive, reflecting the university’s rigorous academic standards and the diverse talents of its Applicants.
Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rate Trends
Understanding the trends in the Carnegie Mellon University acceptance rate can provide insight into how competitive the admissions process has become over the years. Recently, the acceptance rate at CMU Pittsburgh has seen a noticeable decline compared to previous years, indicating increased selectivity and a growing number of applicants.
Here is an overview of the acceptance rate trends over the past few years:
| Academic Year | Number of Applications Received | Number of Students Accepted | Carnegie Mellon University Acceptance Rate |
| Fall 2023 | 43,416 | 16,148 | 37.10% |
| Fall 2022 | 39,354 | 16,730 | 42.50% |
| Fall 2021 | 39,090 | 15,689 | 40.10% |
| Fall 2020 | 28,024 | 13,549 | 48.30% |
| Fall 2019 | 29,065 | 13,261 | 45.60% |
The number of applications to CMU has been rising, with over 43,000 applications in Fall 2023. Even though more students are applying, the number of spots available has stayed about the same. As a result, the acceptance rate has dropped from 48.3% in Fall 2020 to 37.1% in Fall 2023. This shows that getting into CMU is becoming more competitive, so it’s important to make sure your application stands out.
Carnegie Mellon University Average GPA, SAT & ACT Scores
For the MBA Carnegie Mellon program, you can choose to submit SAT or ACT scores, but it’s not required. Here are the average scores for students admitted in Fall 2023:
- SAT: 1500 – 1560
- ACT: 34 – 35
- GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Carnegie Mellon University MBA Class Profile 2025
| Category | Details |
| Total Students | 171 |
| Women | 53% |
| International Citizens | 49% |
| U.S. Minorities | 26% |
| U.S. Underrepresented Minorities | 7% |
| LGBTQ | 8% |
| Veterans | 24% |
| Average Age | 29 |
| Middle 80% Age Range | 25-35 |
| Average GPA | 3.26 |
| Median GPA | 3.4 |
| Middle 80% GPA Range | 2.85 – 3.84 |
| Average GMAT Score | 705 |
| Median GMAT Score | 710 |
| Middle 80% GMAT Range | 650 – 750 |
| Average GRE Score | 324 |
| Median GRE Score | 325 |
| Middle 80% GRE Range | 314 – 338 |
| Average Work Experience | 5.8 years |
| Median Work Experience | 5.4 years |
| Middle 80% Work Experience Range | 3.0 – 10.0 years |
What Do You Need to Apply to Carnegie Mellon?
- Application Form: Start by completing the online application form. Make sure you fill in all sections accurately and thoughtfully.
- Transcripts: Submit your official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended. This helps the admissions committee assess your academic performance.
- Standardized Test Scores: While the Carnegie Mellon University MBA program is test-optional, you can submit GMAT or GRE scores if you believe they will strengthen your application. For those who do submit scores, the average GMAT score is 705 and the average GRE score is 324.
- Letters of Recommendation: You are required to submit at least two letters of recommendation. These should come from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities, work experience, and personal qualities. CMU allows you to submit up to three letters, but only two will be considered.
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Provide an updated resume or CV outlining your professional experience, achievements, and skills.
- Essays: Write and submit your application essays. This is a chance to showcase your personal story, career goals, and reasons for choosing Carnegie Mellon. Tailor your essays to reflect your understanding of the university’s values and how you align with them.
- Interview: If invited, participate in an interview. This is an opportunity to discuss your application in more detail and demonstrate your fit with the program.
What Is Carnegie Mellon Looking For?
- Demonstrated Fit: Carnegie Mellon values applicants who show a clear understanding of why they want to be part of the Carnegie Mellon University MBA program. Research the university’s programs, faculty, and resources. Show how your goals align with what CMU offers.
- Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance is crucial. CMU looks for students with competitive GPAs and test scores. For Fall 2023, the average GPA of admitted students was 3.26, with a median GMAT score of 710.
- Professional Experience: CMU values relevant work experience. The average work experience of admitted students is 5.8 years. Highlight significant achievements and leadership roles in your resume and essays.
- Intellectual Curiosity: Demonstrate your drive to solve complex problems and your ability to think creatively. CMU seeks students who are eager to engage in meaningful projects and research.
- Community Engagement: Show your involvement in community or extracurricular activities. CMU appreciates candidates who have made a positive impact in their communities or fields of interest.
- Passion for CMU: Display a genuine interest in Carnegie Mellon. Understand the university’s culture and values, and express how you will contribute to and benefit from them.
Application Deadlines and Process
Carnegie Mellon University Admissions for 2025 are available online through the Common Application or the official Carnegie Mellon website. Here are some important deadlines:
- Early Decision I (Undergraduate): November 1, 2024
- Graduate Programs: Deadlines vary by program. For specific dates, check the respective Carnegie Mellon College’s website.
- MBA Round 4 Admission: October 1, 2024
To enhance your application, take the following steps:
- Research Thoroughly: Investigate the programs, labs, and faculty at Carnegie Mellon. Familiarize yourself with the university’s culture and current projects.
- Speak with Current Students: Connect with current students or alumni to gain insights into their experiences and life at CMU.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your essays and application materials to reflect your fit with CMU’s values and goals.
FAQs MBA Aspirants Have
What is a good GPA at CMU?
A good GPA for Carnegie Mellon University, especially for competitive programs like the MBA, is typically around 3.9 or higher. This places you above average compared to other applicants. However, having a strong GPA is just the beginning; you’ll also need to showcase impressive accomplishments, leadership skills, and meaningful extracurricular activities to stand out in your application.
Is Carnegie Mellon hard to get into?
Yes, Carnegie Mellon is considered very hard to get into. For the Class of 2025, only 17.5% of applicants were admitted out of a pool of 26,189. Those who were accepted had exceptionally strong academic records. While admission is highly competitive, Carnegie Mellon values data-driven decision-making, so applicants with a well-rounded profile and strong academic and extracurricular achievements have a better chance of standing out.
Why is Carnegie Mellon so famous?
Carnegie Mellon is famous for its pioneering contributions to education and research. It is known for being the first to establish departments in computer science, machine learning, robotics, and computational biology, which have led to significant advances in these fields. Additionally, Carnegie Mellon was a pioneer in management science and is home to the first drama program in the United States. The university’s commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary learning has made it a leader in various fields of study.
Final Thoughts
Applying to a prestigious program like the Carnegie Mellon University MBA can feel overwhelming, but remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. At MBA House, we believe your MBA journey is a project with many components, and every aspect should be optimized for success. That’s why our service includes everything you need to achieve the best results—unlimited questions, calls, drafts, and support. With us, there’s no clock ticking; you get the flexibility and guidance required to craft a compelling application.
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For more information, feel free to reach out at [email protected].
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