About

Private

University Type

52

QS Global Rank

$85,822

Average Living Expenses

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is a private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1900 by Andrew Carnegie and others, CMU is known for its programs in computer science, engineering, business, and the arts. As of fall 2022, Carnegie Mellon University acceptance rate is just 14%, it has an enrollment of 16,779 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1.

CMU is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. In 2024, it was ranked 52nd by QS World University Rankings. In the 2023 U.S. News & World Report rankings, CMU was ranked #22 overall.

CMU has a strong focus on research. The university is home to over 170 research centres and institutes, and its faculty have won Guggenheim Fellowship, and Nobel Prizes for their research. CMU is also a major producer of startups, with over 400 startups linked to the university having raised over $7 billion in follow-on funding in the past 10 years.

CMU also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it has been recognized for its efforts by the Princeton Review and other organizations. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding academic experience, Carnegie Mellon University is a great choice. The university offers world-class programs in several fields, and its graduates are highly sought-after by employers.

Top Reasons to Study in the Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University is a world-renowned university and several reasons add to the popularity of international students' demand to study there. Here are some of the top reasons to study at Carnegie Mellon:

  • Academic excellence: Carnegie Mellon is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, CMU is ranked #52.
  • Innovation: Carnegie Mellon is known for its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. The university has been home to many groundbreaking inventions, including the first video game, the first spam filter, and the first artificial intelligence chess program.
  • Diversity: Carnegie Mellon is a diverse university, with students from over 115 countries, creating a vibrant and stimulating learning environment.
  • Collaborative learning: Carnegie Mellon emphasizes collaborative learning. Students work together on projects and assignments, which helps them develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
  • Career preparation: Carnegie Mellon graduates are highly sought-after by employers. The university also has a strong alumni network that can help students find jobs after graduation.

These reasons are just a glimpse of what you will get to learn and explore at Carnegie Mellon University. To know more, click here.

Cost of Studying at Carnegie Mellon University

Average tuition fee

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3000+ Cr

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$83,697

Average living expenses (Masters)

$85,822

Average on-campus living expenses

$31,122

Admissions at The Carnegie Mellon University

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

13%

Application Fee

$22 - $200

How to Apply at Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon is known for its programs in computer science, engineering, business, and the arts. CMU offers undergraduate programs with 80 majors and 90 minors, and it offers graduate programs through 16 disciplines. Here are the steps on how to apply to Carnegie Mellon University as an international student:

  • Check the eligibility requirements: Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) requires international applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent from a recognized institution. They must also have completed the required coursework in English, math, science, and other subjects.
  • Check the deadlines: Missing admission deadlines can severely hinder your chances of getting into Carnegie Mellon, so primarily, check them.

TYPE

DEADLINE

ENROLL BY

Early Decision 1

November 1

February 1

Early Decision 2

January 3

February 15

Regular Decision

January 3

May 2

Early Admission

January 3

May 2

Submit the application materials: The application materials for international applicants include the following:

  • Application form
  • Official transcripts from all previous schools attended
  • Standardised scores
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • Personal statement.
  • TOEFL or IELTS scores
  • Pay the application fee of $75 - $100 (INR 6,231 - 8,309)
  • Request an interview: CMU offers interviews to international applicants on a rolling basis. Interviews are not required, but they can be helpful in the admissions process.
  • Wait for the decision.

Documents Required to Apply to Carnegie Mellon University

If you are an international student, you need to submit the following documents that vary program-wise:

UNDERGRADUATE

Documents needed to apply to Carnegie Mellon University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Official High School Transcripts.
  • Aggregate GPA of 3.0 (85%).
  • Academic Letters of Recommendation.
  • Writing Supplement (3 short answers).
  • Portfolio Work.
  • Essay.

POSTGRADUATE

Documents needed to apply to Carnegie Mellon University for graduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Bachelor’s Degree.
  • Aggregate GPA of 3.0 (85%).
  • 1-3 Letters of Recommendation.
  • Statement of Purpose.
  • Professional Resume or CV.
  • Work Experience.

Exams Accepted By Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University accepts the following standardised and English proficiency test scores from international applicants:

Undergraduate:

  • TOEFL iBT: 102
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • Duolingo: 135
  • SAT: 1480 - 1560
  • ACT: 33 - 35

Postgraduate:

  • TOEFL iBT: 100 - 102
  • IELTS: 7.0 - 7.5
  • GMAT: 640 - 750
  • GRE: 153 (Verbal); 163 (Quantitative); 4.0 (Analytical Writing).
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Rankings for The Carnegie Mellon University

US News Ranking

#24

US World and News Report

The World University Rankings

#24

The World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings

#52

QS World University Rankings

More rankings for this university

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is a private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1900, CMU is renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, business, and the arts. Pioneering in the field of higher education, Carnegie Mellon University is constantly rated among the finest institutions in the States and worldwide. 

Carnegie Mellon University was placed in the 28th position globally in the Times Higher Education University Ranking 2023. However, according to the QS World University Ranking, CMU dropped from #53 in 2022 to #52 in 2024, showcasing an improvement. Comparably, Carnegie Mellon University was placed #118 globally by US News & World Report's Global Universities Rankings 2023.  

Enlisted below are the global rankings of Carnegie Mellon University from 2022-24:-

Ranked By

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - University Ranking

28

28

NA

QS - World University Ranking

53

52

52

US News & World Report - Global Universities

102

118

NA

Carnegie Mellon University Course Rankings 2022-24

There are several undergraduate and graduate programs offered by Carnegie Mellon University. The institution is renowned for its academic brilliance and provides its students with highly regarded and ranked courses. Carnegie Mellon University was placed #39 for Global MBA in the QS Rankings 2023. MIM's ranking in the Accounting & Finance category for 2023 was 51–100. Meanwhile, Carnegie Mellon University was ranked #15 for its MS by QS Engineering and Technology 2023.

Carnegie Mellon University Course Rankings by QS 2022-24

Course

2022

2023

2024

Arts and Design

17

17

NA

Engineering and Technology

18

15

NA

Mathematics

26

19

NA

Global MBA 

41

39

NA

Accounting & Finance 

51-100

51-100 

NA

Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

51-100

51-100

NA

Physics and Astronomy

51-100

51-100

NA

Communication and Media Studies

101-150

101-150

NA

Biological Sciences

151-200

151-200

NA

Carnegie Mellon University Course Ranking by U.S. News and World Report 2022-24

Course

2022

2023

2024

Information Systems MBA

1

6

NA

UG Computer Engineering

2

1

NA

Business Analytics MBA

2

2

NA

Computer Engineering PG

5

4

NA

Electrical Engineering PG

8

8

NA

Supply Chain Management MBA

6

6

NA

Mechanical Engineering MS

10

10

NA

Civil Engineering PG

9

7

NA

UG Mechanical Engineering

9

9

NA

Graduate Business School

16

16

NA

Finance MBA

16

13

NA

Best UG Biomedical Engineering Schools

18

21

NA

Entrepreneurship MBA

35

NA

NA

Carnegie Mellon University Course Rankings by Times Higher Education 2022-24

Course

2022

2023

2024

PG Computer Science

6

5

NA

Engineering

18

22

NA

Psychology

22

23

NA

PG Business and Economics

27

28

NA

Arts and Humanities

77

69

NA

Carnegie Mellon University is a well-established institute, renowned for its courses in engineering, business, and arts. According to QS, the most popular courses at the university include MIM, MBA, and MS. If you are looking forward to pursuing your education at Carnegie Mellon University, connect with Yocket’s expert counselors to learn more about Yocket Premium! 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Carnegie Mellon University's global ranking?

Ans. Carnegie Mellon University's position in US News & World Report's ranking is #118 for 2023, a tremendous decline from #102 in 2022. The QS World University Ranking 2024 placed CMU #52. Also, Carnegie Mellon University is ranked #28 in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023, the same since 2021.

2. Is Carnegie Mellon University - USA good for Accounting and finance?

Ans. International students can choose from an array of highly regarded MIM programs offered by Carnegie Mellon University. The institution was placed #51 out of 100 in the QS Accounting & Finance 2023 rankings for MIM, similar to 2022. This is quite an excellent ranking, making the MIM program one of the finest at CMU.

3. What are the national rankings of Carnegie Mellon University?

Ans. Carnegie Mellon University is among the finest institutions of higher education in the USA. The university is ranked #22 by US News & World Report - National University Rankings 2023, showcasing an improving trend since 2021 when it was ranked #26 and #25 in 2022.

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International Students

% of international students in the university

17.2

Total International Students in the university

2502

Alumni at Carnegie Mellon University

CMU has a long and distinguished history of graduating talented and accomplished individuals. Here are some of the most notable alumni of Carnegie Mellon University:

  • Shafi Goldwasser (1979): A computer scientist, Goldwasser is known for her work on cryptography and is a recipient of the Turing Award, the highest honour in computer science.
  • Ted Danson (1972): An actor and comedian, Danson is best known for his role as Sam Malone on the sitcom "Cheers."
  • Deborah Estrin (born 1955): A computer scientist and engineer who is known for her work on the development of wireless sensor networks.
  • John L. Hall (1961): A physicist, Hall shared the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on developing optical frequency standards.
  • Finn E. Kydland (1973): An economist, Kydland shared the 2004 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his work on dynamic macroeconomics.
  • Anita Borg (1949-2003): A computer scientist and software engineer who was a pioneer in the field of artificial intelligence.
  • John Forbes Nash (1948): A mathematician and economist, Nash shared the 1994 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his work on game theory. He is the subject of the biographical film "A Beautiful Mind."
  • Evan Spiegel (2010): An entrepreneur, Spiegel is the co-founder and CEO of Snapchat.

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Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
Pennsylvania

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Transportation in the city

Pittsburgh has varied transportation options, including:

  • Public transportation is the most common way to get around Pittsburgh. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAAC) operates a network of buses, light rail, and inclines. PAAC fares are $2.75 for unlimited rides within three hours.
  • Taxis are also available in Pittsburgh. Taxi fares start at $2.25 and increase by $0.25 per additional tenth of a mile.
  • Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also popular in Pittsburgh. Ride-sharing fares vary depending on the distance travelled and the time of day.
  • Biking is a popular way to get around Pittsburgh. There are over 200 miles of bike lanes in the city, and the city is relatively flat, making it easy to bike.

Services offered by the university

Carnegie Mellon University offers various services to its students, faculty, and staff, including:

  • Academic support: Carnegie Mellon University offers varied academic support services, such as tutoring, supplemental instruction, and writing consultation.
  • Career services: CMU's Career and Professional Development Center helps students with career exploration, job search, and resume writing.
  • Financial aid: Carnegie Mellon University's Office of Financial Aid provides financial assistance to students who need it, via scholarships and grants.
  • Health services: CMU's Health Services provides medical, dental, and mental health care to students.
  • Transportation: Carnegie Mellon University offers a shuttle bus system and a bike-share program.
  • Diversity and inclusion: CMU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and offers several programs and services to support students from all backgrounds.

All these are some basic services provided by Carnegie Mellon University. But there are also some special services offered for international students, the disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.

Student life at Carnegie Mellon University

With an array of activities, clubs, and cultural events offered by Carnegie, you are sure to feel involved. Here are some of the things that make student life at Carnegie Mellon University so great:

  • Academics: CMU is a top-ranked university for STEM fields, but it also offers programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. The university's academic rigour is challenging, but students are supported by world-class faculty and resources.
  • Research: CMU students have the opportunity to conduct research with world-renowned faculty. The university is home to over 100 research centres and institutes, and students can get involved in research areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and healthcare.
  • Extracurricular activities: CMU has a thriving student life. There are over 400 student organizations on campus, including everything from sports teams to clubs for hobbies and interests. Students can also get involved in the arts, Greek life, and volunteer work.
  • Location: CMU is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies and a major centre for technology and innovation. CMU students have access to many internship and job opportunities in the city.
  • Diversity: CMU is a diverse university, with students from all over the world. This diversity allows students to learn and accept different cultures.

These are just a few factors that make Carnegie Mellon’s student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.

On campus accomodation at Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University offers various on-campus housing options for undergraduate students, including:

  • Residence halls: These are traditional dormitory-style buildings with shared bathrooms and common areas.
  • Suite-style housing: These units have private bedrooms, shared bathrooms, and common areas.
  • Studio apartments: These units have a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette.
  • Special interest housing: These communities are designed for students with shared interests, such as the arts, athletics, or sustainability.

All first-year students are required to live on campus, and the university guarantees housing for all four years if students remain in the university housing system. Graduate students are also offered on-campus housing, but the options are very limited.

Housing Costs: The cost of a residence hall room ranges from $4,500 to $6,000 (INR 37,3906 - 49,8542) per semester, while the cost of a studio apartment ranges from $6,000 to $8,000 (INR 498542 - 66,4722) per semester.

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