Carnegie Mellon University GPA Requirements: What You Need to Get In
Carnegie Mellon University, renowned for its computer science, engineering, and business programs, maintains highly competitive admission standards. Understanding the GPA requirements and admission statistics is crucial for prospective students targeting this top-tier institution.
Quick Answer: Carnegie Mellon University typically admits students with a GPA of 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale. The average admitted student has a weighted GPA of 4.0-4.3, varying by school.
Carnegie Mellon GPA Requirements
Official GPA Statistics
Average GPA
3.91
Unweighted 4.0 scale
Middle 50% Range
3.8 - 4.0
25th to 75th percentile
Acceptance Rate
11.3%
Highly selective
Weighted GPA
4.0 - 4.3
Including AP/IB courses
GPA Requirements by School
| School/Program | Average GPA | Minimum Competitive GPA |
|---|---|---|
| School of Computer Science | 3.96 | 3.9 |
| Carnegie Institute of Technology (Engineering) | 3.93 | 3.8 |
| Tepper School of Business | 3.92 | 3.8 |
| Mellon College of Science | 3.89 | 3.7 |
| College of Fine Arts | 3.85 | 3.6 |
| Dietrich College (Liberal Arts) | 3.87 | 3.6 |
Carnegie Mellon Admission Statistics
Class of 2028 Profile
- Applications Received: 31,482
- Students Admitted: 3,558
- Acceptance Rate: 11.3%
- Enrolled Students: 1,735
- Yield Rate: 48.8%
Academic Profile
- Average SAT: 1530
- Average ACT: 34
- Top 10% of Class: 92%
- Top 25% of Class: 98%
- International Students: 21%
GPA Analysis for Carnegie Mellon
What GPA Do You Need?
Minimum Competitive GPA: 3.6-3.8 (varies by school; CS requires higher)
Target GPA: 3.9+ for most competitive schools
Safe GPA: 4.0 with strong technical background
GPA Distribution of Admitted Students
Application Strategies
If Your GPA is Below 3.9
- Strong Test Scores: Aim for SAT 1550+ or ACT 35+
- Technical Projects: Showcase programming, robotics, or research projects
- Leadership in STEM: Lead technology clubs or competitions
- Portfolio Excellence: For CS/Engineering, demonstrate coding skills
- School-Specific Essays: Show fit with your target school's culture
Course Rigor Expectations
Expected Course Load:
- 8-12 AP courses (emphasis on STEM for CS/Engineering)
- 4 years each: English, Math, Science
- Advanced math through Calculus BC
- Strong science foundation (Physics, Chemistry)
- Computer Science coursework (if available)
Carnegie Mellon-Specific Tips
- School Choice Strategy: Apply to schools matching your profile
- Technical Skills: Highlight programming, design, or analytical abilities
- Why CMU Essays: Research specific programs and professors
- Demonstrated Interest: Visit campus or attend virtual info sessions
- Portfolio Preparation: For applicable programs, prepare strong portfolios
GPA Calculator Tools
Use our specialized calculators to assess your Carnegie Mellon admission chances:
How Carnegie Mellon Compares
| University | Average GPA | Acceptance Rate | Average SAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon | 3.91 | 11.3% | 1530 |
| MIT | 3.96 | 4.0% | 1570 |
| Stanford | 3.98 | 3.7% | 1550 |
| Georgia Tech | 3.85 | 17.2% | 1465 |
Additional Resources
Conclusion
Getting into Carnegie Mellon University requires strong academic performance, with most admitted students having a GPA of 3.9 or higher. The competition varies by school, with Computer Science being particularly competitive, while some schools like Fine Arts may place more emphasis on portfolio and creative work.
Carnegie Mellon values technical skills, innovation, and interdisciplinary thinking. Focus on building a strong foundation in your intended field while demonstrating how you'll contribute to CMU's collaborative and innovative community.